Program
The urgency of reducing our dependence on fossil fuel continues to escalate. At the 2023 Canadian Waterpower Week, we discussed the changing role of hydropower in our electricity system and what it will take to achieve our greenhouse gas reduction aspirations and rapidly electrify our economy. Continuing the momentum of these important conversations, under the theme of Forward Together, the 2024 Canadian Waterpower Week aims to foster collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. From cutting-edge technologies to policy discussions and action plans, this year’s conference offers a platform for knowledge exchange and networking where industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders come together to explore the future of waterpower and how the industry is taking action.
Taking place in our Nation’s Capital, this year’s conference and trade show will bring together key decision makers, industry experts, policy and business influencers and offer opportunities to come together for an intensive, highly collaborative exploration of new technologies, best practices, and pressing issues, all to enable a collective change. We are thrilled to have industry leaders and seasoned experts exploring where opportunities for cooperation exist, to accelerate progress toward our electric future. Attendees will build knowledge and gain exclusive insights, as well as network and position for success with the largest electricity generation, transmission, energy storage companies and industry related organizations in Canada.
Please note that program development is ongoing and updates are being made daily.
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm | WaterPower Canada Committee MeetingsLocation: To be confirmed |
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Conference Registration OpenLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm | WaterPower Canada Annual General Meeting (AGM)Location: Ontario Room (3rd Floor) |
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm | WaterPower Canada Members ReceptionLocation: To be confirmed |
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Trade Show / Exhibitor Move-InLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
7:00 am – 7:00 pm | Registration OpenLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
7:30 am – 8:30 am | Breakfast BuffetLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
8:30 am – 9:30 am | Welcome to the 2024 Canadian Waterpower Week | Opening Plenary presented by KiewitLocation: Confederation BallroomWelcome to the 2024 Canadian Waterpower Week Canadian Waterpower Week 2024 will commence with introductory remarks from Lorena Patterson, President of WaterPower Canada who will welcome attendees and introduce the theme for the conference, “Forward. Together.” Navigating Canada’s Carbon Conundrum: Towards Net-Zero in a Changing Landscape This plenary panel will assess the nation’s struggle towards achieving net-zero emissions amidst challenges with the existing carbon tax. Stakeholders from various sectors will discuss concerns and shortcomings and will propose collaborative solutions. Discussions will focus on exploring alternative policies and innovative strategies to accelerate emissions reductions. Emphasizing the urgency of unified action transcending political divides, the panel aims to outline a new approach to climate policy, positioning Canada as a leader in global sustainability efforts. Panelists will include André Bernier, Director General, Electricity Systems Branch (ESB) at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Corey Diamond, Executive Director at Efficiency Canada, and a representative from a Canadian municipality will share their perspective and experience (both challenges and successes) in setting policy in this area, specifically new regulations for large commercial buildings to track and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. |
9:30 am – 9:45 am | Networking Break & Visit the Trade Show sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc.Location: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
9:45 am – 10:45 am | PLENARY SESSIONLocation: Confederation BallroomReliability | Resilience | Security Join Jim Robb, President and CEO, North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) as he shares key insights and advice in relation to electricity system reliability in a decarbonized world. This engaging fireside conversation with Dave Bowen, Vice-President of Asset Planning and Delivery at Manitoba Hydro and Vice-Chair of WaterPower Canada’s Board of Directors, will dive into the role that hydropower plays in our energy transition and the greater role it could play in meeting North American goals and sustaining black start capability. |
10:45 am – 11:00 am | Networking Break & Visit the Trade Show sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc.Location: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
11:00 am – 12:00 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 1Stream A: Planning, Reliability, Policy and Regulatory AffairsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I1A – Federal Support Programs to Enable Indigenous Equity Participation in New Energy Projects Discover how federal support programs are empowering Indigenous communities to achieve equity participation in new energy projects. This session will explore funding opportunities, policy frameworks, and success stories, providing valuable insights for fostering sustainable partnerships. Join us to learn about the pathways to meaningful Indigenous involvement in the energy sector. Stream B: Climate Change, Environmental Affairs and Indigenous Relations sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom II1B – Harmony Unleashed: Hydropower’s Vital Role in Preserving Canada’s Biodiversity This session will discover how WaterPower Canada members are championing biodiversity and sustainability in Canada through innovative practices and partnerships, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between renewable energy generation and natural ecosystems. Join as they explore the vital role hydroelectricity plays in preserving Canada’s rich biodiversity and fostering a sustainable future for generations to come. Stream C: Operations & Construction, Project Updates and Technological AdvancementsLocation: Governor General Ballroom III11:00 am – 11:30 am Programming in development. 11:30 am – 12:00 pm 1C – Revolutionizing Underwater Concrete Assessment Discover how ASI, in collaboration with Vector Construction Services – NDT Division, has revolutionized underwater concrete assessment by adapting topside methods (Impact Echo ASTM C1383 and Pulse Velocity ASTM C597 specifically) for use with ROVs. Explore the challenges needed to overcome in order to achieve reliable non-destructive testing of concrete strength and integrity in previously inaccessible underwater environments. Presented by Bob Clarke, Senior VP of Research and Development at ASI, this session will highlight applications in assessing concrete dam faces, spillways, and tunnel liners. |
12:15 pm – 1:45 pm | Plenary Luncheon presented by Bird ConstructionLocation: Confederation BallroomCollaborative Delivery of Hydropower Projects – Application, Experience, Potential Collaborative project delivery, known as the “One Team approach,” emphasizes trust, open communication, and shared values to tackle complex projects like those in hydropower. While it presents a significant change for many organizations, it’s essential for addressing industry challenges. This plenary session, led by Bird Construction, will explore defining collaborative project culture, fostering effective teamwork, implementing Lean Tools & Practices, and integrating diverse perspectives for optimal outcomes. Key considerations include leadership deployment, contractual arrangements, and alignment with organizational practices and requirements, amongst others. Join Lynnell Crone, VP Alternative Project Delivery, Bird Construction as she moderates a lively discussion between Paul Burroughs, Vice President – Renewable Generation Major Projects, Ontario Power Generation (OPG), Steve Chagnon, Director Project Efficiency, Construction and Rehabilitation, Hydro-Québec and Daniel Drouin, President of The Integrated Project Delivery Alliance (IPDA). |
1:45 pm – 2:00 pm | Networking Break & Visit the Trade Show sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc.Location: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 2Stream A: Planning, Reliability, Policy and Regulatory AffairsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I2A – Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions on Hydropower Reservoirs This session dives into the significance and complexities of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from hydropower reservoirs. Join as experts explore the GHG implications associated with hydropower. Attendees will gain insights into a significant Canadian research project that is comparing measured emissions with modelled predictions and using that information to improve modelling tools. This Canadian collaboration includes WPC, several WPC members, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Canadian universities. Panelists from utilities, government and research institutions will share their knowledge about how reservoirs emissions fit into the broader environmental and policy context as we move towards a net zero economy and how this type of research informs policy and planning related to hydropower and electricity systems more broadly. Stream B: Climate Change, Environmental Affairs and Indigenous Relations sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom II2B – Turbine Design for Safe Fish Passage Join WPC Member Natel Energy for an insightful breakout session on innovative FishSafe turbine designs, crucial for modernizing aging hydropower plants in Canada. With many facilities destined for refurbishment and growing regulations to protect migratory fish like the American eel, discover how Natel’s cutting-edge solutions ensure fish-friendly hydropower operations while meeting modernization needs. Engage with experts Abe Schneider, Chief Technology Officer at Natel Energy and Sterling Watson, Staff Engineer, Fish Safety at Natel Energy as they discuss balancing renewable energy generation with aquatic ecosystem health. Stream C: Operations & Construction, Project Updates and Technological AdvancementsLocation: Governor General Ballroom III2C – Collaborative Project Delivery – Best Practices and Case Studies Join us for an in-depth session on the Collaborative Projects Delivery. The speakers will share best practices acquired in different sectors of the construction industry, including hydropower. Building on the “One Team approach” discussed in the plenary, through case studies and recent experiences, we’ll explore real-world applications, success stories, and strategies for fostering trust, open communication, and shared values applicable to high CAPEX and complex projects. |
3:00 pm – 3:15 pm | Coffee and Networking Break |
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 3Stream A: Planning, Reliability, Policy and Regulatory AffairsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I.3A – Long Duration Energy Storage: Should pumped hydro compete or complement battery storage? As global investments in battery storage increase and countries worldwide make significant advancements in pumped hydro storage, it is crucial to understand how these two technologies can complement each other. This session will explore the roles of pumped hydro and battery storage in long-duration energy storage, highlighting international examples and sharing key lessons learned. Stream B: Climate Change, Environmental Affairs and Indigenous Relations sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom II3B- Empowering Partnerships: Opportunities for new generation in Northern Ontario and Indigenous partnerships The Canadian Hydropower Industry is committed to pursuing relationships with Indigenous communities based on meaningful and ongoing communication, aimed at creating mutual benefit. Hear from Ahmad Al-Ali, Director, Hydro Business Development at Ontario Power Generation who will discuss the lasting economic and social benefits that potential hydroelectric developments in Northern Ontario could provide to Indigenous communities. Stream C: Operations & Construction, Project Updates and Technological AdvancementsLocation: Governor General Ballroom III3C- Engineered Success | HIPASE-PS combined device for protection and synchronization applications ANDRITZ’ HIPASE is a globally recognized control platform covering several power generation applications such as excitation (E), electrical protection (P), turbine governor (T) and synchronization (S). All applications are based on identical hardware and device firmware and are parameterized using the same HIPASE engineering tool. The advantages of this unified platform provide many benefits for the end users, including simple project planning and implementation, lower training costs and reduced spare parts inventory. In the latest HIPASE development stage, ANDRITZ has combined two applications in one device for convenience of programming, synergy in functionality and compact form factor. In this presentation, Herbert Proschek, Lead Protection Engineer at ANDRITZ Hydro in Vienna, Austria, will explain the HIPASE control platform fundamentals and discuss many features and benefits of the combined HIPASE-PS protection and synchronization device for hydro power plant control systems. He will demonstrate a simple way of creating a typical protection system using the HIPASE engineering tool. |
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm | Canadian Waterpower Week VIP Reception presented by ANDRITZ (by invitation only) |
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Canadian Waterpower Week Reception (for all conference attendees)Location: Canadian Waterpower Week Trade Show | Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm | New format! Canadian Waterpower Week Networking Dinner presented by GE VernovaLocation: Confederation BallroomJoin us for an evening of connection and camaraderie at our networking dinner. The evening gives speakers, delegates, sponsors and exhibitors a unique opportunity to meet, network and catch-up in an informal and social environment. Share insights, exchange ideas, and cultivate new opportunities in a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. Elevate your networking experience over a delightful meal, surrounded by like-minded individuals passionate about collaboration and growth. |
7:30 am – 8:30 am | Breakfast BuffetLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
8:30 am – 9:30 am | Morning Plenary sponsored by EnerServ and MV2 HydroLocation: Confederation BallroomInnovative Strategies for Small Hydro Rehabilitation Join WPC Members EnerServ and MV2 Hydro as they lead an insightful panel discussion featuring experts from various sectors of the hydro industry. Panelists will explore innovative approaches to rehabilitating and optimizing small hydroelectric production dams. Unlike larger and medium hydro projects, small hydro rehabilitation faces unique financial and operational constraints that require tailored strategies. Our distinguished panelists will share their perspectives and experiences, addressing the critical differences and presenting practical solutions for overcoming these challenges. |
9:30 am – 9:45 am | Networking Break & Visit the Trade Show sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc.Location: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
9:45 am – 10:45 am | PLENARY SESSIONLocation: Confederation BallroomImproving Energy Literacy & Enhancing Social Acceptability in Canadian Waterpower Development Programming in development. |
10:45 am – 11:00 am | Networking Break & Visit the Trade Show sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc.Location: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
11:00 am – 12:00 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 4Stream A: Planning, Reliability, Policy and Regulatory AffairsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I4A – Empowering the Hydropower Workforce – Strategies for Productivity, Recruitment, and Inclusion Join representatives from Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) and other WPC Members for an engaging breakout session, where we will delve into the dynamic landscape of the hydropower workforce. This session will bring together industry leaders and experts to discuss key challenges and innovative strategies in workforce productivity, recruitment, and regional challenges, with a strong focus on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Stream B: Climate Change, Environmental Affairs and Indigenous Relations sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom II11:00 am – 11:30 am 4B- Using Acoustic Telemetry to Validate Innovasea’s New AI-powered Fish Counting Solution, HydroAI Upstream and downstream migration of Alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) was evaluated through a pool and weir fishway and two downstream bypasses at the White Rock Hydroelectric Facility (Nova Scotia Power Inc.), on the Gaspereau River, Nova Scotia, Canada using a recently developed miniaturized ultrasonic acoustic transmitter and the new HydroAI system. HydroAI employs video and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to produce real-time fish counts. Hear from Colleen Burliuk, Research Biologist at Innovasea as she shares how they are helping hydro dam operators improve efficiency and environmental compliance with their new technology 11:30 am – 12:00 pm 4B- Innovations in Water Forecasting for Sustainable Hydropower Programming in development Stream C: Operations & Construction, Project Updates and Technological AdvancementsLocation: Governor General Ballroom III4C – Modernizing Hydropower: Innovations and Challenges in Major Refurbishments The Independent Electricity System Operator’s (IESO) projects that Ontario’s electricity demand could more than double by 2050. Upgrading and optimizing Ontario’s existing hydroelectric assets is essential to meet the provinces growing need and demands of electrification. Join us at this session where Amanda Griener, Director Asset & Project Management at Ontario Power Generation, Codie Lonsberry, Senior Project Manager at Ontario Power Generation, Travis Penno, Vice President Field Services at HydroTech, Daniel Granger, WPC Board of Directors member and Senior Sales & Business Development Director at GE Vernova and Eric Leblanc, Project Director at GE Vernova will discuss the innovations, challenges and opportunities of the more than $600 million dollar refurbishment of the R.H. Saunders facility – Ontario’s second-largest hydro station. |
12:00 pm – 1:45 pm | Closing Plenary LuncheonLocation: Confederation BallroomUnlocking the Potential: Exploring Regional Electricity Market Cooperation in Canada In recent years, the concept of regional electricity market cooperation as a means to help the build out of renewables and to help address reliability in Canada has garnered significant attention and praise. The idea of integrating and coordinating electricity markets across different regions promises numerous benefits, including enhanced efficiency, improved reliability, and increased access to diverse energy sources. However, despite widespread acknowledgment of its potential advantages, the actual implementation of such cooperation has been slow and challenging. This plenary panel discussion aims to delve into the opportunities and challenges surrounding regional electricity market cooperation in Western Canada. Bringing together key stakeholders from various sectors of the industry, the panel will provide diverse perspectives on why this promising concept has yet to materialize into actionable strategies. |
2:00 pm | Conference concluded |
7:30 am – 8:30 am | Breakfast Buffet sponsored by Hydro-Québec |
8:30 am – 9:30 am | Morning Plenary sponsored by Hydro-QuébecWhile our 2035 net-zero electricity goal was challenging, our ultimate goal is to build a net-zero economy by 2050. This massive undertaking will challenge our ability to plan, design, and build large scale energy projects, and will require development on an unprecedented pace for our industry. Join Claudine Bouchard, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating and Infrastructure Officer at Hydro-Québec; Rodrigue Gilbert, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs and Procurement Practices, Canadian Construction Association; and other industry leaders as they engage in conversation. |
9:30 am – 10:00 am | Networking Break & Visit the Trade Show |
10:00 am – 10:45 am | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 4Stream A: Planning and Reliability4A – Certifying Sustainable HydropowerJoin Lynn St-Laurent and Christian Turpin from Hydro-Québec as they share specifics surrounding the certification of the Eastmain-1 Development under the International Hydropower Association’s Hydropower Sustainability Standard. Join them for a discussion with those involved in these projects, along with sustainability experts. Stream B: Environmental and Indigenous Relations4B – Snow and Water Digital TwinsHear from Ion Padilla, Co-founder and CEO of Wegaw, and Matt Elgin, Head of Business Development at Wegaw as they discuss their methods of modelling snow and future water runoff with geospatial data and machine learning. Stream C: Operations, Construction and Projects4C – Lessons Learned from the Keeyask Generating StationBarnard Construction, Hatch and Manitoba Hydro will come together to discuss lessons learned from the recently completed Keeyask hydroelectric project. This session will be moderated by Mike Westgate, Vice President, Business Development – Canada, Barnard Inc; and will feature Tom Tonner from Manitoba Hydro; Mike Fuller from Barnard Inc; and Warren Gendzelvich from Hatch. |
10:45 am – 11:15 am | Networking Break & Visit the Trade Show |
11:15 am – 12:00 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 5Stream A: Planning and Reliability5A – Hydropower’s Value to a Net-Zero Electricity Grid & Improving Efficiency. What are the Possibilities?Review of WaterPower Canada’s latest NRCan funded studies. Brady Yauch from Power Advisory LLP will discuss the critical role that Canadian hydropower facilities play in providing essential grid services to maintain a balanced and reliable grid, and Martin Dodge from Hatch will discuss the potential for increasing capacity at Canadian hydropower facilities and the results of their comparative cost study. Stream B: Environmental and Indigenous Relations5B – Climate Change and Impacts / Solutions from Indigenous communitiesMany of the utilities in Canada have plans to address climate change and are working with Indigenous communities to implement those plans. Listen to a panel of Indigenous and Industry experts discussing how climate changes is impacting Indigenous communities and the opportunities for partnering to bring about change. Conversations will also include government funding for Indigenous equity in capital projects, particularly renewable energy projects. Presenters include Muhamud Hassan, Chief of Staff, United Nations Association in Canada; Guy Lonechild, CEO of the First Nation Power Authority; and Christian Matossian from TC Energy. Stream C: Operations, Construction and Projects5C – System Planning and Delivery of MegaprojectsJoin James Burpee; Dr. Kathleen Vaillancourt, President of ESMIA Consultants; and Oskar Sigvaldason as they engage in a conversation surrounding the planning and delivery of megaprojects. Canada’s dominant challenge, from now to mid-century, will be to successfully plan and implement the largest and most expensive infrastructure development program in the history of Canada. This is in response to meeting economic growth, and GHG mitigation targets, and includes a major program of end-use electrification. This places special emphasis on the importance of comprehensive, integrated planning, as well as rebuilding the management capacity, to successfully deliver major infrastructure programs. This will include unprecedented expansion of large-scale hydro and pumped storage developments across Canada. |
12:00 pm – 1:45 pm | Closing Plenary Luncheon presented by Manitoba HydroPowering Through a Changing WorldThis session summarizes the discussions from the past two days. Our path to net-zero begins with the first steps. Join our closing panel to explore our immediate take-aways on this journey. Moderated by Francis Bradley, President & CEO of Electricity Canada, panelists will include André Bernier, Director General, Electricity Systems Branch (ESB) at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan); Dave Bowen, Vice-President of Operations from Manitoba Hydro; and Jean Habel, Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada at Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA). |
2:00 pm | Conference concluded |
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm | Additional ProgrammingTECHNICAL TRAINING SESSIONSANDRITZ | Generator Rotor Structural impacts & RefurbishmentsVOITH Hydropower | The Scale of DigitalDigital as an Enabler – How do we best utilize “digital” to help us in our jobs of producing, monitoring, and communicating our changing production levels to balance our business objectives – whether they be saving money, making money, increasing capacity, seasonal contractual obligations, availability, or running to failure? Where does “digital” deliver demonstrable value at the power unit level, the power station level, the fleet level, and across the industry? We could say “digital twin” and imagine that encompasses everything, but we would betray the facts that it takes a LOT of technology to make and maintain a “digital twin”. Join Brent Ward from VOITH Hydropower as he takes a look at the range of uses of digital technology to see what fits where and when and what benefits digital could bring and the resulting trade-offs.These trainings are complimentary for all conference registrants, but please confirm your attendance by emailing conference@waterpowercanada.ca. |
Please note all times are presented in Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), and all sessions are presented in English.
The program is subject to change at WaterPower Canada’s discretion.
Program Development
The Canadian Waterpower Week Program Development & Planning Committee are always looking for inspiring and thought-provoking industry experts to join our speaker lineup. Don’t miss your chance to share your knowledge and research with your industry peers at this year’s conference.
Submit your proposal today!
Accommodations
The Conference and Trade Show will take place in Ottawa, ON, at The Westin Ottawa. A block of rooms has been set aside at the hotel at a special conference rate. Click here to book your group rate or call the toll free number 1-888-627-8528 and request the WaterPower Canada Conference group block.
Reservations are subject to availability and must be made no later than August 27, 2024 to receive the special conference rate.
Past Program
While we’re hard at work developing an exciting new program, please revisit and explore the 2023 Canadian Waterpower Week Program and Speakers.