MICRO-HYDRO POWER GENERATION
The existence of the millpond and dam creates a rare opportunity for micro-hydro generation. The historic turbine/power take-off and hydro-electric system is not able to be re-used in a cost-effective or energy-efficient manner. A new turbine system strategically located so as to take advantage of the existing head of water while utilizing the historic millrace as an outlet is under consideration.
Ongoing discussions have occurred with Power Up Renewable Energy Co-operative (PURE) a Dufferin County-based organization to oversee the installation of a micro-hydro system. There is potential to create sufficient electricity from the site to either operate the building or offer the energy for sale to the public electrical grid as a revenue stream for the project. This aspect awaits the outcome of the pond rehabilitation portion of the project.