Functional specialization across space: a case study of the Canadian Electricity Industry, 1971-2001

This article examines the location of functions within the electricity sector in Canada from 1971 to 2001, using a centre-periphery model. Power generation, distribution and retailing are generally carried out by multiestablishment crown corporations. Location patterns of different functions-management, scientific, production, etc.-are analyzed via the use of occupational groups. The spatial distribution of functions is found to be generally consistent with centre-periphery relationships, with evidence of a growing functional specialization between large metropolitan and nonmetropolitan locations. However, differences emerge depending on power generation sources: fossil fuels, hydro, nuclear, solar or biomass. The choice of a power generation source has consequences for local economies.