Imagine a power capable of powering a nation, born from the wild rivers of Quebec's Far North. This is the story of Hydro-Québec, a state-owned company founded in 1944, which became Canada's largest electricity producer and one of the world's largest hydroelectric producers. Beyond its colossal infrastructure, the company plays a central role in the economic development and energy transition of the province. This article explores its history as a builder, the geography of its vast network, its undeniable strengths and the challenges it must meet to shape Quebec's future.

Daniel-Johnson Dam

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1. A History of Builders: The Major Stages of Hydro-Québec

Hydro-Québec's history is intimately linked to the affirmation of modern Quebec. From the first nationalizations to colossal construction sites, each stage has left its mark on the province.

The Birth of a Public Service

In the 1930s and 1940s, discontent was rising in Quebec against the "electricity trust," criticized for its allegedly abusive rates and inadequate service. In response, Adélard Godbout's government created Hydro-Québec on April 14, 1944. The new state-owned company was given a triple mandate: provide electricity at the lowest possible rates, modernize an outdated network, and develop rural electrification.

Masters in Our Own House: The Quiet Revolution

1963 marked a decisive turning point. Under the impetus of René Lévesque, then Minister of Natural Resources, the government carried out a second nationalization. Eleven private companies were integrated into Hydro-Québec, which became the province's main electricity supplier. This operation, carried out under the famous slogan "Masters in Our Own House," was at the heart of the Quiet Revolution.

Photo credit: wikipedia

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2. A Colossal Network: The Geography of Quebec Electricity

Hydro-Québec's network is exceptionally large infrastructure, whose very design was dictated by the province's unique geography. The network extends over 1,000 kilometers from north to south, with powerful plants concentrated in the James Bay area, the North Shore, and the Saint-Maurice River.

Credit: wikipedia

Hydro-Québec's Network at a Glance

• Installed capacity: 37,439 megawatts (in 2023)
• Hydroelectric plants: 62
• Transmission network length: 34,922 km of high-voltage lines
• Interconnections: 17 links with Canadian and U.S. networks

Photo credit: wikipedia

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3. The Strengths of a World Leader

Hydro-Québec's position is based on strategic advantages:

• Clean and renewable energy: In 2020, 99% of the energy produced by Hydro-Québec was clean and renewable
• Among the lowest rates: Electricity rates in Quebec are among the lowest in North America
• An economic engine for Quebec: The company paid $12.5 billion CAD in dividends to the Quebec government between 2019 and 2023
• World-renowned expertise: The company has developed unique know-how in managing large infrastructure projects

Photo credit: wikipedia

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4. Challenges of Yesterday and Tomorrow

Environmental Impact and Communities

The construction of large dams has had notable consequences, including increased mercury concentration in reservoirs and greenhouse gas emissions. These projects have also disrupted the way of life of Indigenous populations.

The Reliability of an Immense Network

The network's vast extent makes it vulnerable. Major events have highlighted this fragility, including the 1998 ice storm that left 1.4 million customers without power for periods ranging from a few hours to nearly four weeks.

The Turn Towards the Future

The biggest current challenge is the energy transition. To decarbonize its economy, Quebec anticipates a 50% increase in its electricity demand by 2050. Hydro-Québec's 2035 Action Plan aims to meet this challenge by modernizing existing plants, adding 10,000 MW of wind energy, and considering the construction of new hydroelectric plants.

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Conclusion

Hydro-Québec is much more than just an electricity supplier. Since its creation, it has established itself as a pillar of Quebec's identity, economy, and energy sovereignty. Building on its legacy, Hydro-Québec is now faced with its greatest challenge: reinventing its centralized model to drive the complex and decentralized energy transition of the 21st century.