Largest Hydroelectric Conference in Canada Recognizes Leadership in the Waterpower Industry
Press Release
2016 Power of Water Canada Conference and Tradeshow Awards
(October 24, 2016 – Toronto) Almost 400 Canadian and International delegates from the waterpower industry, non-government organizations, First Nations and government agencies attended the 16th annual Power of Water Canada Conference last week. Educational sessions at this year’s conference highlighted Bending the Cost Curve, Ingenious Partnerships, Rehabilitating and Modernizing Facilities, Regulation, Community Engagement, Long Term Planning and much more. The annual conference also featured a large tradeshow with over sixty (60) exhibitors showcasing leading edge products and services.
“This year’s event once again created outstanding networking and educational opportunities,” said Paul Norris, President of the Ontario Waterpower Association. “In today’s evolving policy environment, it’s increasingly important for the industry – large and small – to come together with key partners and regulators to advance shared objectives.”
On the evening of October 18th, the OWA hosted its annual awards ceremony, recognizing the contribution of industry leaders. The 2016 R.R. Dodokin Award was presented to the family of the late Ian R. Kerr of Brookfield Renewable. This award recognizes the outstanding contribution of an individual to the advancement of waterpower in Ontario. OWA and Brookfield Renewable have also established two bursaries at Memorial University in Ian’s namesake.
Ian helped establish and grow Brookfield Renewable, taking on various leadership roles during his career in the organization. He also gave his time to help develop the next generation of leaders in the renewable energy industry.
Ian Kerr’s wife Kathy Kerr (left), and Ian’s brother Andrew Kerr (right), accepted the R.R. Dodokin award in Ian’s honour. Colin Clark (center), represented Brookfield Renewable in presenting the award.
Ian served as a member of the OWA Board, in the roles of Chair and Vice Chair during his tenure and made a significant contribution to the Association.
Pic Mobert Hydro Inc. was presented with OWA’s Innovation Award, which recognizes leadership in the development of important advancements benefitting to the waterpower industry as well as the Stewardship award recognizing their leadership in environmental sustainability for the Gitchi Animki.
Hydroelectric Project.
The Gitchi Animki (White River) project was undertaken by the Pic Mobert Hydro Inc. a joint venture, a partnership of subsidiary companies of the Pic Mobert First Nation and Regional Power Inc. The Gitchi Animki Hydroelectric Project consists of two waterpower generating stations with a combined generating capacity of 18.9 MW, Gitchi Animki Bezhig, and Gitchi Animki Niizh. The development is located in the traditional territory of the Netamasakomik People of the Pic Mobert First Nation, and was one of the first contracted under the Ontario Power Authority’s Feed-in Tariff Program.
Pic Mobert Hydro Inc. accepted the Innovation & Stewardship Awards Next year’s 17th Annual Power of Water Conference and Tradeshow will be held again at the White Oaks Conference Resort from October 23rd – 25th, 2017. Save the dates!
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