Downtown Waterfront

21.5 km Marker

Tail Race

Water · Eau · Nibi


Aerial view of the generating station. Photo: Tourism Sault Ste. Marie

The Francis H. Clergue Generating Station is a three-unit hydroelectric station located at the outlet of Lake Superior on the St. Marys River. It was originally built in 1916 but was redeveloped in 1981 for electricity generation. It has an installed capacity of 52.0 MW and a head of 5.9 metres. Water flows from the reservoir through three tunnels or penstocks, which generate approximately 385,381 MWh of renewable energy per year. The swirling water that you can see from the shore is called the tailrace. This is water that has flowed through the turbine to generate electricity, and is now joining the main flow the river.

Natural Environment and Outdoor Studies

Challenge Yourself!

  • Test your knowledge

  • Question 1

    The Francis H. Clergue Generating Station was built in 1916 and was redeveloped in 1981 for electricity generation. How long had the station been used for prior to being redeveloped?


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Think about it…

Why is the St. Marys River an ideal location for a generating station?