June 1, 2013 – Energy Ottawa, a subsidiary of Hydro Ottawa, is providing a glimpse inside what it calls one of Canada’s oldest operating run-of-river hydroelectric generating stations this weekend, June 1 and 2, as part of Doors Open Ottawa.

The 8MW Chaudiere Falls Generating Station No. 2 was built in 1891 by industrialist E.H. Bronson, and was originally owned and operated by the Ottawa Electric Company. In 2001, it was completely rebuilt and fully automated, while ensuring that all elements of the station at this heritage-designated building remained preserved.

Doors Open Ottawa is brought to the community by the City of Ottawa and gives visitors the chance to explore some of the city’s buildings and facilities, some of which are rarely accessible to the public.

“This site has great historical importance to Ottawa in fuelling the industrial expansion of the capital in the late 1880s,” said Bryce Conrad, president and CEO, Hydro Ottawa. “Last year, over 1100 visitors toured the station and discovered how hydroelectricity was produced in the past and still is today.”

Location: Mill Street, Amelia Island
Directions: Take Booth Street north, turn right at the NCC Victoria Island sign just north of the War Museum, and follow Hydro Ottawa signs.