In 1825, the current location of the hydro generation dam in Renfrew was identified as a prime source of water power. Since then, businesses and organizations have worked to harness the power of the Bonnechere River in a variety of methods. The water has been used to turn millstones, machinery, turbines and shuttle logs from Algonquin Park down to the Ottawa River.                                                                  

 1853 saw the start of the industrial development of the lands around the waterfalls described as "Rose  Tree Falls". The McDougall Mill was built around this time and remains standing today. These businesses relied heavily on the Bonnechere River for their power.

In 1901, the Renfrew Power Company issued a contract for construction
of a dam and generator house. This original building is still generating
power today. 

In November 2000, the responsibility for the distribution of electricity to
Renfrew residents and businesses was granted to Renfrew Hydro Inc.
and the responsibility for power generation to Renfrew Power Generation
Incorporated.

Now in 2016, Renfrew Hydro Inc, delivers power to over 4200 residences
& businesses and has 10 dedicated employees, that are there to serve

it's customers with safe, reliable power.

MISSION STATEMENT

“Renfrew Hydro Inc. will deliver a dependable supply of electricity to customers and achieve the highest level of customer service”.

  VISION

“To be acknowledged as a leader among electric utilities in the areas of safety, reliability, customer service, and least cost service.”

Core Values

1. Safety- Relentless commitment to protecting ourselves, our colleagues and our community.

2. Honesty and Trust- Being sincere in everything we say and do.

3. Teamwork- Sharing our ideas in an open and supportive manner to achieve excellence.

Safety

Electricity is an important part of our daily lives. It's everywhere. It lights our homes, cooks our food, powers our tools, and runs our televisions, radios and computers. Unfortunately, too many people are injured or killed every year because they used electricity in an unsafe manner or simply disregarded the basic rules of electrical safety. The vast majority of electric shocks are preventable. In fact, human error is the cause of at least 80 percent of all electrocution deaths in Ontario. Electricity is safe if you treat it with respect and not become careless about how you use it.