Tuesday, July 29, 2025
In eastern Ontario, OPG’s Barrett Chute Generating Station (GS) is now running like new after a successful four-unit, four-year refurbishment.
The facility on the Madawaska River generates 176 megawatts of low-carbon, reliable power, or enough electricity to support about 176,000 homes.
Barrett Chute’s complete refurbishment began in 2021 with the disassembly of its G3 unit. From there, work crews tackled units G4, G1, and finally G2, which returned to service in April 2025.
The major project involved replacing and rewinding key generator parts, repairing turbine components, and making other upgrades to improve performance, reduce maintenance, and extend the station’s life.
“We are fortunate to have a highly collaborative and competent team focused on the project,” said Luc Steep, a Project Site Manager with OPG. “Their ongoing communication and teamwork allowed us to address challenges quickly and effectively.”
With each successful unit refurbishment, the team gathered valuable lessons that were applied to subsequent units, setting a strong rhythm to the finish line.
Barrett Chute GS is one of five OPG hydro stations along the Madawaska River. These stations operate as “peaking plants,” supplying electricity during periods of high demand. The facility’s first two units came into service in 1942 just in time to help meet the great demands of Canada’s war efforts during the Second World War.
After the war, the station helped support the province’s economic boom, with two new units being commissioned in 1968.
This project is just one part of OPG’s broader plan to refurbish and strengthen its expansive hydro fleet, which supplies about 20 per cent of Ontario’s electricity.
Featured image: OPG’s Barrett Chute hydro station in eastern Ontario. (OPG)
