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.
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.
United States
California
- California Powder Works (1864-1914)
Maine
Massachusetts
Michigan
New Hampshire
New York
- Niagara Falls Hydraulic Power and Manufacturing Company (1862)
- Rockland Mill Complex (c.1850)
Ohio
New Zealand
- Tekapo Canal
- Pukaki Canal
- Ohau Canal
