PROGRAM
Powering Canada, Empowering the Future
In a changing landscape, hydropower remains Canada’s backbone of energy security, economic strength, and national unity. The 2025 Canadian Waterpower Week will explore how resilience, reliability and ingenuity in hydropower can drive prosperity, navigate challenges, and secure Canada’s clean energy future.
Taking place in our Nation’s Capital, the 2025 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.
What’s New This Year
Explore the newest program elements for this year’s Canadian Waterpower Week, designed to spark deeper engagement, foster collaboration, and create space for meaningful connections across the sector.
2025 Canadian Waterpower Week Program
9:00 am – 3:00 pm | PRE-CONFERENCE TRAININGLocation: The Westin Ottawa, Ontario Room (3rd Floor)MEASURING HYDROELECTRIC TURBINE PERFORMANCE Led by WPC Member KGS Group, this training session offers a practical overview of hydroelectric turbine performance, including key factors influencing efficiency, measurement techniques, and optimization strategies. Participants will gain insights into turbine performance over time, energy equations, performance guarantees, international test codes, and field-testing procedures. The session emphasizes the importance of accurate data for informed operational and financial decisions. Course facilitators: Dan Giesbrecht and Albert Mikhail. You can add this session directly to your conference registration or email conference@waterpowercanada.ca for more information. |
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm | WiRE x WPC x OPG SPEED MENTORING EVENTLocation: To be confirmedJoin WiRE, WPC, and OPG for a Speed Mentoring event connecting students, young professionals, and experts in the waterpower sector! Are you a student or early-career professional eager to break into the waterpower industry? Or a WPC Member and industry leader looking to give back, share knowledge, and connect with the next generation of talent? This event is designed for you! Speed Mentoring offers a unique opportunity for mentees to receive guidance, career insights, and industry knowledge from experienced professionals—all in a fast-paced and dynamic setting. Whether you’re exploring career pathways, seeking advice, or building your professional network, this event will help propel you forward. Learn more and register for this program here |
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm | CONFERENCE REGISTRATION OPEN sponsored by BBALocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm | WATERPOWER CANADA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM)Location: The Westin Ottawa, Ontario Room (3rd Floor) |
4:00 pm – 10:00 pm | TRADE SHOW EXHIBITOR MOVE-INLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | WATERPOWER CANADA WELCOME RECEPTIONLocation: Mill Street Brew Pub, 555 Wellington Street. OttawaKick off Canadian Waterpower Week by getting to know your peers in a relaxed setting filled with music, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres. This is a great chance for all CWW attendees, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors and invited guests to come together to network and catch up with industry colleagues, make new friends, create valuable connections, and celebrate our shared commitment to sustainable waterpower and our clean energy future. Mingle with WPC Members and Government Representatives and chat about the future of waterpower all while taking in the breath-taking views of Generating Station No. 2 (today an asset of Portage Power) that holds the distinction of being Canada’s oldest operating hydroelectric station. Whether you are a first-time attendee or a long-time friend of WPC, this exclusive gathering helps set the stage for the impactful discussions that will take place throughout the week. Make sure to add this valuable networking experience to your conference schedule! |
7:00 am – 7:00 pm | REGISTRATION OPEN sponsored by BBALocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
7:30 am – 8:15 am | BREAKFAST BUFFETLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
8:15 am – 8:30 am | OFFICIAL CONFERENCE OPENINGLocation: Confederation BallroomWELCOME TO THE 2025 CANADIAN WATERPOWER WEEK Canadian Waterpower Week 2025 will commence with introductory remarks from Lorena Patterson, President and CEO of WaterPower Canada who will welcome attendees and introduce the theme for the conference, Powering Canada, Empowering the Future. |
8:30 am – 9:30 am | OPENING PLENARYLocation: Confederation BallroomCHARGING AHEAD? A CANADIAN POWER PULSE CHECK This timely session will take stock of the federal government’s early progress on energy and infrastructure commitments made during the campaign. From promises to cut red tape and accelerate project approvals, to pledges around deeper provincial collaboration and regulatory reform – how much has truly materialized since the election? What is changing in the regulatory landscape and in the mandates of different government departments and agencies? Are we on track to achieve the government’s ambitious goals, or is the path unfolding differently than expected? |
9:30 am – 9:45 am | NETWORKING BREAK & VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and TractebelLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
9:45 am – 10:45 am | MORNING PLENARYLocation: Confederation BallroomProgramming in development |
10:45 am – 11:00 am | NETWORKING BREAK & VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and TractebelLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
11:00 am – 11:30 am | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 1Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I1A – AI and Digital Twins for Hydropower: From Reactive Maintenance to Intelligent Operations Discover how TGM Expert, a Canadian-developed AI platform tailored for hydropower, is helping power utilities modernize asset reliability, reservoir management, and O&M efficiency. Presented by Emmanuel Ngue, CEO and Principal Engineer and Diego Rueda, Business Analyst & IoT Integration Specialist at EN Solutions Hydro, this session highlights how the platform uses pre-configured hydro asset models, real-time dashboards, image recognition for inspection photos, and digital twin integration to transform raw operational data into concrete, proactive actions. Already deployed across Africa and Latin America, TGM Expert is now being introduced in Canada to support utilities as they transition from reactive to intelligent operations. Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II1B – Bright Spots in Hydropower Production: Perspectives from the Environmental Sector Over the past 24 years, Ecofish Research (a Trinity Consultants Canada team since 2022) has played a leading role in supporting hydropower projects through complex regulatory processes across Canada. In this session, William Twardek, Fisheries Scientist at Ecofish Research Ltd., draws on that experience to highlight key lessons learned in balancing project success with environmental protection and community engagement. Through case studies – particularly from British Columbia – William will spotlight ‘bright spots’ where proponents have embraced science-based decision-making, adaptive management, and meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities to generate tangible, lasting benefits. The presentation will conclude with forward-looking recommendations to support more effective and efficient hydropower development across Canada, emphasizing opportunities to help both individual clients and the broader industry navigate regulatory pathways more effectively and efficiently. Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III1C – Geotechnical Design and Performance Insights from Site C Join Badr Benabdellah, Geology and Geotechnical Engineering Lead at AtkinsRéalis, for an overview of the Site C Dam, one of Canada’s most complex and significant hydroelectric projects. This session will cover the design, construction and performance monitoring of the Earthfill Dam, which rises 78 m above its lowest foundation level. The dam is founded on a weak shale, characterized by a compressive strength ranging from 5 to 15 MPa and numerous closely spaced weak bedding planes with friction angles as low as 10 degrees. These challenging geotechnical conditions make the Site C dam a compelling case study in modern dam engineering. |
11:30 am – 11:35 am | |
11:35 am – 12:05 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 2Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I2A – Development Approach for Low Energy Sites – Sawer Dam Case Study Bawitik Power Corporation sought to develop a generating station at Sawer Creek Dam on the Otonabee River near the town of Lakefield, Ontario, and retained KGS Group to lead the development. With only 3.2 meters of head, the primary challenge was economic rather than technical. A phased development process was used to optimize both feasibility and cost-effectiveness. The technical solution was shaped using a Set Based Design approach and extensive turbine market soundings, coordinated with an Early Contractor Involvement strategy to align design decisions with construction methods and cost control. In this session, Stefan Kohnen, Principal and Regional Manager at KGS Group, will describe the process developed by KGS Group to identify and implement an economically viable solution. He will walk through how the project evolved at each stage, the key decisions made, and the outcomes achieved. The presentation will highlight how this methodology addressed critical considerations such as spilling capacity, environmental releases, and construction diversion flows — demonstrating what it takes to successfully develop an unpowered dam under economic constraints. Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II2B – CSA S910.1 – A New Standard for Climate Change Vulnerability Assessments of Dams With the release of the CSA S910.1 Standard, Canada takes a significant step toward advancing dam safety and enhancing dam resilience in a changing climate. In this session, Kurt Kornelsen, Director of Environment and Climate Change at Ontario Power Generation (OPG), will provide an overview of the new standard, its development, and how it supports the assessment and management of climate-related risks to dam infrastructure and the function of dams across the country. Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III2C – From Theory to Execution: Delivering Gigawatt-Scale Pumped Storage – The Case of Snowy 2.0 and Tehri Project With renewed interest in pumped storage power plants (PSPs) across Canada, this session will share practical, on-the-ground insights from two of the world’s most ambitious projects: Snowy 2.0 in Australia (2,000 MW) and the Tehri Pumped Storage Project in India (1,000 MW). Drawing on decades of international experience and over 40 GW of PSP projects supported globally, Pascal Seret from Tractebel Engineering will highlight key lessons learned in design, implementation, and site supervision – offering valuable takeaways for the future of PSP development in Canada. |
12:05 pm – 12:15 am |
Location: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
12:15 pm – 1:45 pm | PLENARY LUNCHEON sponsored by AECOMLocation: Confederation BallroomSHAPING THE VISION FOR CANADA’S ENERGY FUTURE: UNLOCKING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS THROUGH STRATEGIC GUIDANCE AND PROACTIVE PLANNING Join AECOM for a compelling discussion that will dive into the critical themes of resilience, reliability and ingenuity, highlighting their role in driving prosperity, fostering transformative change, and securing energy stability. Industry leaders will emphasize the pivotal role of early advisory in delivering these outcomes. This conversation will inspire attendees with actionable insights to navigate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and strengthen the hydropower sector. Jill Hudkins, Chief Executive of AECOM’s Water + Environment Advisory global business line and Lorena Patterson, President & CEO of WaterPower Canada will lead this engaging discussion. |
1:45 pm – 2:00 pm |
Location: Conference Floor (4th Floor)NETWORKING BREAK & VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and Tractebel |
2:00 pm – 2:30 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 3Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I3A – Generator Development Aligned to the Environment and its People ANDRITZ, a global technology company, is continually investing into developing new ways to improve the health of its workers and sustainability of its products and solutions. With this initiative in mind, ANDRITZ Hydropower generator R&D team in Peterborough, ON, has been working on replacing all chemicals used for windings with new chemicals eliminating the carcinogenic, mutagenic and reprotoxic risks for workers and on implementing new 30% bio-based resin compound for generator winding insulation tape. In his technical presentation, Robert Draper, Principal R&D Engineer at ANDRITZ Peterborough generator plant, will offer an overview of testing and performance results for this resin type in modern generator windings. Additionally, Robert will present a progress update on eliminating the most chronic of health risks for our workers. Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II3B – Advancing Aquatic Biomonitoring: Integrating Genetic Techniques for Benthic Invertebrate and Fisheries Assessment As regulatory requirements for aquatic monitoring become more rigorous, innovative approaches are needed to enhance accuracy and efficiency. This session explores how genetic techniques (such as DNA barcoding and eDNA metabarcoding) are revolutionizing the assessment of benthic invertebrate and fisheries communities across all phases of project development. Helga Sonneberg, Founder and CEO of Ecoreg Solutions will share insights from research and field applications, demonstrating how these tools are being integrated into regulatory frameworks to deliver consistent, scalable, and cost-effective results. Ideal for environmental professionals, regulators, and researchers, this session highlights the practical use of genetic methods alongside traditional techniques, with real-world case studies and performance comparisons. Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III3C – From Diesel to Hydropower: Transforming Energy in Nunavut’s Capital Discover how Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation (NNC), Nunavut’s first 100% Inuit-owned renewable energy developer, is reshaping the future of energy in the North. This session will spotlight the Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit Project, a 15-30 MW waterpower initiative aimed at replacing diesel generation in Iqaluit with clean, reliable, and community-led power. Learn how NNC is centering Inuit leadership, free, prior, and informed consent, and cultural priorities in every phase of development. Join Heather Shilton, Director, NNC and Greg Sheppard from Tetra Tech as they share insights on how this project, supported by recent federal investment, is paving the way for energy sovereignty and dual-use infrastructure in Canada’s Arctic. |
2:30 pm – 2:35 pm | SESSION TRANSITION BREAK |
2:35 pm – 3:05 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 4Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I4A CONTINUES – Generator Development Aligned to the Environment and its People ANDRITZ, a global technology company, is continually investing into developing new ways to improve the health of its workers and sustainability of its products and solutions. With this initiative in mind, ANDRITZ Hydropower generator R&D team in Peterborough, ON, has been working on replacing all chemicals used for windings with new chemicals eliminating the carcinogenic, mutagenic and reprotoxic risks for workers and on implementing new 30% bio-based resin compound for generator winding insulation tape. In his technical presentation, Robert Draper, Principal R&D Engineer at ANDRITZ Peterborough generator plant, will offer an overview of testing and performance results for this resin type in modern generator windings. Additionally, Robert will present a progress update on eliminating the most chronic of health risks for our workers. Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II4B – Collaborative Upgrade at Garvin Falls Description coming soon! Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III4C – Phoenix Pumped Hydro: A Blueprint for Public-Private Energy Collaboration Discover how Australia’s 800 MW, 15-hour Phoenix Pumped Hydro project is setting a precedent for private-sector-led, publicly-enabled energy storage development. Dr. Mark Locke, Senior Technical Director, Hydropower at GHD will outline how New South Wales’ consistent policy support, from the 2018 Pumped Hydro Roadmap to recoverable grants and long-term service agreements, enabled this project to advance through feasibility and design. With insights into Australia’s varied state-level approaches and Phoenix’s strategic role in grid stability and renewable integration, this session offers policy and development lessons highly relevant to Canadian jurisdictions seeking to unlock long-duration storage potential. |
3:05 pm – 3:15 pm | NETWORKING BREAK & VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and TractebelLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
3:15 pm – 3:45 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 5Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I5A – The Urgency of Redeveloping Old Hydro Stations: A Perspective on Value and Risk Across the U.S. and Canada, more than 500 hydro facilities – many over a century old and under 10 MW – face rising costs, falling revenues, and difficulty justifying redevelopment. Without action, financial failure could leave dams and related infrastructure without proper care, creating escalating public safety risks. Led by Stefan Kohen, Principal and Regional Manager at KGS Group, this session examines the scale of the challenge, the essential non-power benefits these sites provide (such as navigation, irrigation, recreation, and flood control) and proposes a new valuation approach to close the financial gap and ensure long-term asset sustainability. Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II5B – Unlocking the Future of Snow Monitoring: Canada’s Terrestrial Snow Mass Mission Snow is Canada’s most important freshwater reservoir, and accurate data on snow mass is essential for water management, flood forecasting, hydropower operations, and climate resilience. This session introduces the Terrestrial Snow Mass Mission (TSMM), a groundbreaking Canadian-led satellite mission that will combine satellite data with state-of-the-art snow modeling to deliver the first high-resolution, space-based estimates of snow water equivalent at 500m resolution across the Northern Hemisphere. With data updated daily and freely accessible, TSMM promises to transform environmental forecasting, infrastructure planning, and clean energy generation. Join Chris Derksen from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) as he shares how TSMM will empower science, industry, and decision-makers to manage water resources and adapt to a changing climate with unprecedented accuracy. Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III5C – Unlocking Peaking Potential: SM2 Expansion Case Study Large reservoir assets remain an underutilized opportunity for meeting peak energy demands – particularly in provinces like Quebec and British Columbia. This session will explore how strategic upgrades can unlock significant value. Focusing on the Ste. Marguerite (SM2) power plant expansion, experts from BBA will present a detailed case study highlighting how these projects are being optimized to enhance peaking capacity and system flexibility. |
3:45 pm – 4:00 pm | NETWORKING BREAK & VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and TractebelLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 6Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I5A CONTINUES – The Urgency of Redeveloping Old Hydro Stations: A Perspective on Value and Risk Across the U.S. and Canada, more than 500 hydro facilities – many over a century old and under 10 MW – face rising costs, falling revenues, and difficulty justifying redevelopment. Without action, financial failure could leave dams and related infrastructure without proper care, creating escalating public safety risks. Led by Stefan Kohen, Principal and Regional Manager at KGS Group, this session examines the scale of the challenge, the essential non-power benefits these sites provide (such as navigation, irrigation, recreation, and flood control) and proposes a new valuation approach to close the financial gap and ensure long-term asset sustainability. Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II6B – HydroAI: Advancing Fish Migration Monitoring Through Automated Counting Upstream and downstream migrating Alewife (Alosa pseudoharengus) were counted using HydroAI at several hydro facilities across Nova Scotia, providing valuable information on fish passage for hydro dam operators. The same system was deployed on the St. Lawrence River at the Saunders Hydro Dam to count upstream migrating American eel elvers (Anguilla rostrata). 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 operators improve efficiency and environmental compliance with their new technology. Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III6C – Developing a Collaborative Labour Strategy for Major Hydropower Projects Session description coming soon! |
4:30 pm – 7:00 pm | NETWORKING BREAK & VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and TractebelLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm | CANADIAN WATERPOWER WEEK VIP RECEPTION sponsored 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 | CANADIAN WATERPOWER WEEK NETWORKING DINNER & AWARDSLocation: Confederation BallroomJoin us for an evening of connection and camaraderie at the CWW Networking Dinner. The evening will begin with the presentation of the Woman of Waterpower Award (in partnership with Women in Renewable Energy) and the WPC WaveMaker Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions and achievements in the waterpower sector. This special evening offers speakers, delegates, sponsors, exhibitors, and guests a unique opportunity to meet, network, and reconnect in a welcoming social environment. Share insights, exchange ideas, and cultivate new opportunities in an engaging atmosphere. It’s also a chance to reflect on the sessions from the first day of conference activities and continue the conversation in a more relaxed setting. |
7:30 am – 8:30 am | LATE CONFERENCE REGISTRATION sponsored by BBA |
7:30 am – 8:30 am | BREAKFAST BUFFETLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
8:30 am – 9:30 am | BREAKFAST PLENARYLocation: Confederation BallroomA POWERFUL PARTNERSHIP: TRADE AND ENERGY SECURITY BETWEEN CANADA AND THE U.S. As political landscapes shift on both sides of the border, what lies ahead for hydropower in Canada and the United States? This high-level plenary will set the stage for a dynamic conversation on the evolving federal priorities that will shape the future of energy policy, trade, and climate action across North America. Building on the foundations of a popular WaterPower Canada (WPC) x National Hydropower Association (NHA) joint webinar earlier this year, this session brings together the top voices in industry and policy. Together, they’ll explore the broader strategic opportunities and challenges ahead. Speakers will provide perspectives on the broader Canada – US economic relationship and CUSMA conversations, to be followed by operators’ perspectives on how hydropower strengthens bilateral cooperation, investment, and supply chain security across our two countries. In a time of change, collaboration is not just beneficial – it’s essential. Join us for a timely and forward-looking dialogue on how hydropower can remain a cornerstone of North American energy resilience and sustainability. |
9:30 am – 9:45 am | NETWORKING BREAK & VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and TractebelLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
9:45 am – 10:45 am | MORNING COFFEE PLENARYLocation: Confederation BallroomREGIONAL ELECTRICITY MARKETS: FROM CONCEPT TO COMMITMENT As the need for national energy diversity and grid reliability continues to grow, the vision of a more integrated electricity market across the country is gaining renewed urgency. While the potential benefits in Western Canada are well known– enhanced efficiency, reliability, and flexibility, real progress toward meaningful market coordination remains slow. This plenary builds on last year’s conversation by moving the focus from concept to action. The Government of Canada has expressed support for a pan-Canadian grid; is this feasible and will this contribute to increased energy security? Panelists representing system operations, regulation, trading, and advisory perspectives will discuss what has changed over the past year, what barriers remain, and what tangible steps could be taken to translate the idea of regional electricity market cooperation into action. Is alignment finally within reach or is more groundwork still needed before Canada can unlock the full potential of regional integration? |
10:45 am – 11:00 am | NETWORKING BREAK & VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and TractebelLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
11:00 am – 11:30 am | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 7Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I7A – Pumped Hydro in Mine Voids: Opportunities and Obstacles for Development Repurposing mine voids for pumped hydro energy storage offers a compelling yet complex path for developers and engineers. Drawing from over a dozen studies (including the under-construction 250MW Kidston PHES in Australia) GHD experts Brendan Henry and Mike Westerman explore the technical, environmental, and regulatory challenges tied to mine site developments. From adverse geology and water contamination to co-location with renewables and existing infrastructure, this session will offer real-world insights into the promise and pitfalls of mine-based pumped storage – with key takeaways relevant to potential North American applications. Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II7B – Hydro-Québec’s Biodiversity Plan: Aligning Clean Energy with Conservation Join Céline Cusson, Director of Environment at Hydro-Québec, for an inside look at how the utility is integrating biodiversity into its core operations through its newly launched Biodiversity Plan. This session will explore Hydro-Québec’s commitments, strategies, and on-the-ground initiatives to protect and enhance ecosystems across its vast territory — showcasing how clean energy development can be successfully aligned with long-term environmental stewardship. Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III7C – Powering Ahead: Refurbishment Case Studies In this session, WaterPower Canada members will share real-world case studies highlighting the challenges, solutions, and successes of refurbishing existing hydro assets. From extending asset life to improving efficiency and meeting modern standards, these projects showcase the critical role refurbishment plays in strengthening Canada’s clean electricity system. |
11:35 am – 12:05 am | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 8Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I8A – Coming soon! Programming in development Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II8B – HydroSphereAI: AI-Driven Insights and Hydrological Forecasting in a Changing Climate Join Dr. Andre Erler, Senior Climate Scientist as he explores how Aquanty’s HydroSphereAI platform is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to revolutionize hydrological forecasting. This session will showcase real-world applications of AI and physics-informed models to deliver faster, more accurate insights into water systems – supporting climate resilience, infrastructure planning, and decision-making in an increasingly uncertain environment. Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III7C – Coming Soon! Programming in development |
12:05 am – 1:00 pm | NETWORKING LUNCH & LAST CHANCE TO VISIT THE TRADE SHOW sponsored by Barnard Construction Company, Inc. and TractebelLocation: Conference Floor (4th Floor) |
1:00 pm – 1:50 pm | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION 9Stream A: Hydro Operations, Maintenance and Planning sponsored by TurbinePROsLocation: Governor General Ballroom I9A – Bridging the Labour Gap Programming in development Stream B: Policy, Climate Change, Environment, and Indigenous RelationsLocation: Governor General Ballroom II9B – Remembering the Past, Investing in a Stronger Future: Crown Utility Best Practices in Indigenous Reconciliation This dynamic panel discussion, moderated by Jeffrey Betker, Vice President, External & Indigenous Relations, Environment and Communications at Manitoba Hydro, brings together leaders from Manitoba Hydro, Hydro-Québec, and BC Hydro to discuss the evolving relationship between Indigenous Nations and Crown utilities across Canada. Susan Collins at Manitoba Hydro, Émilie Sénéchal, Manager of First Nations and Inuit Relations at Hydro-Québec, and Patrick Tomlinson, Indigenous Relations, Business Operations & Negotiations at BC Hydro will share regional experiences and insights into how their organizations are working in partnership with Indigenous nations to co-develop projects, implement equity ownership structures, and embed Indigenous values and priorities into long-term planning. The session will also examine the challenges and opportunities of moving from transactional relationships to models of shared decision-making, prosperity, and lasting economic benefit. Designed for utility professionals, Indigenous partners, and policymakers alike, this session will offer practical insights on how the hydropower sector can play a meaningful role in advancing economic reconciliation through respectful, inclusive, and forward-looking collaboration. Stream C: Project Development and Construction sponsored by AtkinsRéalisLocation: Governor General Ballroom III9C – The Future of Renewable Energy in British Columbia (Case Study: Site C Clean Energy Project) Building on Thursday’s technical overview of Site C’s design and performance, this panel will explore the broader impact of the Site C Clean Energy Project as a case study in BC’s renewable energy future. Representatives from AtkinsRéalis, BC Hydro, and Klohn Crippen Berger (KCB) will come together to discuss the project’s role in meeting the province’s growing electricity demands, its contribution to the regional economy, and the long-term benefits for communities in northeast BC and beyond. Moderated by Gilbert Bennett, Senior Advisor at WaterPower Canada, panelists will also reflect on key challenges encountered during the project’s development ranging from technical complexities to environmental considerations, and the innovative solutions that helped move the project forward and into completion. Attendees will gain a well-rounded understanding of how Site C fits into BC’s clean energy strategy, and what it signals for the future of large-scale renewable energy projects in Canada. |
1:50 pm – 2:00 pm | |
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm | CLOSING PLENARY sponsored by Kiewit & GanotecLocation: Confederation BallroomTHE WATERPOWER CANADA DRAGONS’ DAM COMPETITION PRESENTED BY KIEWIT & GANOTEC Witness the excitement of the final round of the WPC Dragons’ Dam Competition, presented by Kiewit and Ganotec! The top three teams will pitch their innovative solutions to a panel of industry leaders — the WPC Dragons — demonstrating creativity and ingenuity in solving real-world engineering and energy challenges. Don’t miss this dynamic session and the thrilling announcement of team prizes, recognizing the entrepreneurial spirit and groundbreaking ideas that emerged during the competition. Cheer on the next generation of innovators as they compete for top honors — and some great prizes! Click here for more information on the WPC Dragons’ Dam Competition. |
3:00 pm | CONFERENCE CLOSING REMARKSLocation: Confederation BallroomHYDROPOWER – POWERING A SUSTAINABLE AND RESILIENT FUTURE As the 2025 Canadian Waterpower Week draws to a close, Eddie Rich, CEO of the International Hydropower Association (IHA), will share closing reflections on the key themes, insights, and momentum generated throughout CWW. Drawing from a global perspective, Eddie will highlight how the conversations and connections made over the past few days reflect the evolving role of hydropower in powering a sustainable and resilient energy future. Following Eddie’s remarks, the WaterPower Canada team will share a few final announcements and notes of thanks as we formally close this year’s event. |
3:30 pm | CONFERENCE CONCLUDED |
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm | EXHIBITOR MOVE-OUT |
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 sessions are conducted in English. Live translation into your preferred language is available for all plenary sessions.
All times are listed in Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The program is subject to change at WaterPower Canada’s discretion.
NEW THIS YEAR!
WPC x WiRE x OPG Speed Mentoring Event
Join WaterPower Canada (WPC), Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE), and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) for a Speed Mentoring event connecting students, young professionals, and experts in the waterpower sector!
Are you a student or early-career professional eager to break into the waterpower industry? Or an industry leader looking to give back, share knowledge, and connect with the next generation of talent? This event is designed for you! Speed Mentoring offers a unique opportunity for mentees to receive guidance, career insights, and industry knowledge from experienced professionals—all in a fast-paced and dynamic setting. Whether you’re exploring career pathways, seeking advice, or building your professional network, this event will help propel you forward.
DATE AND TIME: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm EDT
LOCATION: Canadian Waterpower Week, The Westin Ottawa, 11 Colonel By Drive Ottawa, ON K1N 9J1
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
Mentors (WPC Members):
✔ Share your expertise and industry insights
✔ Inspire and guide emerging professionals in waterpower
✔ Expand your own network and connect with like-minded professionals
✔ Contribute to the future of the industry
Mentees (Students & Emerging Professionals):
✔ Gain valuable career advice from seasoned experts
✔ Learn about industry trends, opportunities, and challenges
✔ Build meaningful connections with professionals in the sector
✔ Explore event sessions and immerse yourself in the waterpower community
Spaces are limited! Secure your spot today and be part of an empowering experience that connects knowledge, careers, and the future of waterpower!
All mentors and mentees are invited to attend the Welcome Reception at this year’s Canadian Waterpower Week, WaterPower Canada’s national conference and trade show, free of charge. For those wishing to attend the full conference, a discount code will be provided for registration.
NEW THIS YEAR!
Meet the Regulator – Exclusive One-on-One Meetings
New for Canadian Waterpower Week, the “Meet the Regulator” program offers attendees a unique opportunity to engage directly with key Canadian regulatory agencies including the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC).
This initiative provides 20-minute, pre-scheduled meetings where participants can seek guidance, ask questions, and gain valuable insights on regulatory processes, project approvals, environmental assessments, and compliance requirements.
Whether you’re navigating permitting challenges, looking for clarity on policy updates, or simply seeking to establish connections, these one-on-one meetings offer a focused, productive dialogue with the regulators shaping the future of Canadian waterpower.
Spaces are limited – submit your interest below !
Meet the Regulator – One-on-One Meeting Application Form
Thank you for your interest in the Meet the Regulator program at Canadian Waterpower Week. This initiative provides 20-minute, pre-scheduled meetings with key regulatory agencies, including the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC). Please complete the form below to express your interest. Space is limited, and meetings will be confirmed in advance of the event.
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Submitting the form does not guarantee a meeting. Confirmed meeting times will be communicated in advance of the event.
Applications may also be submitted by email to conference@waterpowercanada.ca .
Accommodations
The 2025 Canadian Waterpower Week Conference and Trade Show will take place in Ottawa, Ontario, at The Westin Ottawa. The Westin Ottawa is conveniently located in the heart of Canada’s picturesque capital, on the Rideau Canal and steps from Parliament Hill. Connected to the Rideau Centre shopping mall, The Westin Ottawa offers easy access to Canada’s national attractions.
A block of rooms has been set aside at the hotel at a special, discounted conference rate for Wednesday, October 1 and Thursday, October 2. 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 September 5, 2025 to receive the special conference rate.
Past Program
While we’re hard at work developing an exciting new program, please revisit and explore recent Canadian Waterpower Week Programs and Speakers.