Challenges of constructing large hydro projects in cold climates

Cold climate conditions within northern latitudes can produce a challenging environment for the development and construction of a hydro project. River management strategies must be developed that can address the risk associated with the complex river ice processes which could occur in large river systems each winter season. While site-specific characteristics need to be considered in any river management plan, similar features can be found in the mitigation strategies employed at both the Keeyask and Muskrat Falls projects, currently under construction in Canada.