Investment in Hydro-Québec's Capacity and Reliability

author: FutureCar Staff    

Quebec's power utility, Hydro-Québec, has announced plans to invest up to $185 billion over the next 12 years. The investment aims to increase capacity and reliability to meet the growing demand for electricity from industries and electric cars. The utility expects demand to rise by 150 to 200 terawatt hours by 2050, with a significant portion of the increase coming from the replacement of fossil fuels with electricity.

Hydro-Québec CEO Michael Sabia emphasized the need to decarbonize the economy and invest in Quebec's future. The utility plans to invest between $155 billion and $185 billion by 2035 to enhance power generation and reduce outages. Approximately $100 billion will be allocated to boost production capacity and strengthen the electricity transportation network.

To achieve these goals, Hydro-Québec aims to build new hydro stations, leverage new technologies, and explore options for renewable energy sources. However, the utility is still considering whether to construct new dams and is engaging in conversations with Indigenous communities to ensure their involvement and benefit from the projects.

Hydro-Québec also seeks to diversify its energy sources by increasing its use of wind power and solar energy. The utility plans to triple its use of wind power and explore the potential of renewable natural gas. Quebec Premier François Legault has envisioned Quebec as the "battery of North America" due to its clean electricity supply and has signed export deals with neighboring American states.

Notably absent from the utility's plan is any mention of the Churchill Falls Generating Station in Labrador. The facility has generated significant revenue for Hydro-Québec but has sparked discussions about the terms of future agreements. Hydro-Québec also intends to invest between $45 billion and $50 billion to improve infrastructure reliability and reduce outages.

Encouraging customers to reduce electricity consumption, particularly during peak hours, is another priority for Hydro-Québec. While residential rates will not exceed a three percent annual increase, businesses may face higher rates. Hydro-Québec acknowledges the importance of maintaining a competitive price difference for industries in Quebec compared to other regions.

Building the new infrastructure will require a substantial workforce of approximately 35,000 construction workers per year. This poses a significant challenge as Quebec currently faces a labor shortage. Despite the obstacles, Hydro-Québec remains committed to its ambitious plan to meet the future demands of the province and contribute to economic growth.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on November 2, 2023.

Stéphane Blais, The Canadian Press

FutureCar Staff