Water

Fossil fuel plants are major users of freshwater. In 1996, together with nuclear plants, they were responsible for withdrawing about two-thirds of the total freshwater intake in Canada.

To produce one kilowatt-hour of electricity, about 140 litres of water is required for fossil fuel plants . Some water is heated and turned to steam to drive electricity generators. Most water, however, is used for cooling purposes.

Coal-fueled power plants draw water from lakes and rivers. Some gas-fired plants also draw water from deep wells and municipal water systems.

Coal-fueled plants process water in different ways, returning water to its source or re-circulating it through cooling ponds or towers. Gas-fired combined cycle and cogeneration plants re-circulate water, reducing water discharge volumes.

Releases of water from electricity operations must meet standards established by provincial regulatory agencies.