Calabogie Generating Station Redevelopment

The Calabogie Generating Station Redevelopment Project involved the redevelopment of the existing hydroelectric facility to extend its life and enhance its energy output to 11MW output. The project included constructing a new powerhouse, expanding intake and tailrace channels, rebuilding the forebay dam and adding a new substation and fish habitat compensation features. KGS Group served as owner’s engineer, guiding the project through feasibility, design and execution phases.

In 2006, we completed a feasibility study to explore options for the site’s refurbishment and redevelopment and were consequently awarded the role of owners engineer in 2017. We presented the client with a list of new turbine vendors, developed user requirements and preliminary specifications, supported environmental assessments and assisted with stakeholder consultations, including engagement with First Nations groups.

Our team then assisted in procuring the contractor for the project who completed the final optimization, design and construction. Key design refinements included a more compact powerhouse, a redesigned forebay dam and a reworked intake channel supported by hydraulic modelling and a physical model. The project also included measures to make the site ready for eel passage and to facilitate future downstream passage.

KGS Group provided oversight, in collaboration with the Resident Engineer, throughout the project including full-time inspection services, ensuring quality and regulatory compliance, while mitigating risks and following safety standards. We helped complete commissioning and turnover of the project providing consistency and project knowledge from feasibility design to close out.