Power canal

A Power Canal refers to a canal used for hydraulic power generation, rather than for transport of watercraft. The power canal was a major factor in the Industrial revolution in New England in the 19th century. Most early power canals were mill races used mechanically to transfer power directly from falling water to machinery in mill buildings. Later, the hydraulic power generated electricity locally for the same mill factories. These power canals were often filled in as electricity (transported by power lines) replaced the need for local water power, and road transport needs or city expansion needs reclaimed the land. Some hydraulic power canals were transformed into local electric generators, but most were closed. Remains of power canals can be seen in old mill towns and are often protected as historical structures today.

Queenston-Chippawa Power Canal conveying water to the Sir Adam Beck Hydroelectric Power Stations, Ontario, Canada,
Map showing the system of canals used to power the textile mills of Lowell, Massachusetts. At left, water is diverted from the Merrimack river, and distributed out to several smaller canals (center and right)
Sluice in the canal of Gabčíkovo Dam (Slovakia) - the canal is conveying water to a hydroelectric power station.

United States

California

Maine

Massachusetts

Michigan

New Hampshire

New York

Ohio

New Zealand

  • Tekapo Canal
  • Pukaki Canal
  • Ohau Canal

Notes

  1. "The California Powder Works Flume". Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Retrieved 2013-05-02.
  2. "Historic Interpretive Signs about the Oriental Powder Mills Installed" (PDF). Presumpscot Regional Land Trust. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2011-07-27. Retrieved 2010-07-30.
  3. Sullebarger Associates, PAST Architects. "Ahimaaz King House and Carriage House Historic Structure Report" (PDF). Deerfield Township, Ohio. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2 June 2012. Retrieved 29 November 2014.
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