Which region is a major source of hydroelectric power in Canada?

• A. Manitoba and Saskatchewan
• B. Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island
• C. Quebec and British Columbia
• D. Alberta and Ontario

Answer: (C)

Hydroelectric power grows strongest where there are long, rapid rivers and heavy precipitation that can be captured by large dam-and-reservoir systems. In Canada, two provinces stand out for this reason: Quebec and British Columbia.

Quebec has built massive hydro facilities along its northern river basins, including the James Bay area, creating a vast, continuous supply of electricity that powers the province and is exported to others. The province’s geography provides long, steady-flowing rivers and large reservoirs that are ideal for generating electricity on a large scale.

British Columbia also has extensive hydro resources because of its rugged, mountainous terrain and many rivers. The province has developed a wide network of dams and power stations that produce most of its electricity, with relatively low reliance on fossil fuels.

While other regions do generate hydroelectric power, the combination of enormous capacity and reliable output in these two provinces makes them the primary sources of hydroelectric power in Canada.