Our water management and production scheduling teams work year-round to closely monitor hydrology (reservoir/water levels) for all of our hydroelectric generating sites. 

Variations in hydrology are regularly observed – usually due to weather conditions fluctuating from season-to-season and year-to-year. It’s particularly normal for our system’s hydraulic energy storage to trend downwards during the summer season. This is necessary to prepare our reservoirs in advance of the fall hurricane season and all the extra precipitation it brings. This proactive reservoir management also helps reduce the risk and amount of spill, which is important from a public safety perspective.

Our electricity system is always managed holistically, to ensure we are balancing reliability, safety, and cost efficiency for customers. Through this integrated approach, we can draw on off-island generation to help reduce Island generation demands and support Island reservoir storage during dry periods, as required – this includes utilizing the Labrador Island Link and, when appropriate, importing power through the Maritime Link. By optimizing hydroelectric resources, we also reduce the need for fuel‑based thermal generation, helping to lower overall fuel costs and deliver cost savings for the province. When reservoir storage and system conditions allow, excess hydroelectric energy is exported by our Energy Marketing team. The revenues generated from these exports support rate mitigation efforts, helping to manage electricity costs for customers over the long term.

Thank you to the many teams across Hydro who are always working to monitor and manage our system to ensure safe, reliable service and positive outcomes for customers and communities across the province.

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