Boralex, Energir and Hydro-Quebec are partnering to develop three wind projects with a total capacity of 1200MW, in Quebec, Canada.
The partnership is in line with Hydro-Quebec’s intention to develop a portfolio of wind energy projects with experienced partners in the province.
The proposed projects comprise the 400MW Des Neiges Wind Farm – South, in the RCM of La Cote-de-Beaupre, the 400MW Des Neiges Wind Farm – Charlevoix, in the RCM of Charlevoix and the 400MW Des Neiges Wind Farm – West, in the RCM of La Cote-de-Beaupre and potentially in the municipality of Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury in the RCM of La Jacques-Cartier.
Under the agreement, Boralex, Energir and Hydro-Quebec will participate equally in the projects through affiliated companies.
The energy generated will be purchased by Hydro-Quebec under three power purchase agreements and included in the volume of energy available to supply its various markets.
The decision regarding whether each project is carried out will depend on Hydro-Quebec’s evolving needs.
These wind projects would be developed at very beneficial costs and would generate significant economic spinoffs for Quebec given that the total investments for the three projects could reach $3bn, stated the partners.
The partners have committed to a collaborative approach in designing the projects with the host communities and the Indigenous communities located in the regions involved.
Several meetings have already taken place with these communities and the communication will continue throughout the development of the projects.
Boralex president and chief executive Patrick Decostre said: “At Boralex, we have been developing and operating renewable energy power facilities in Quebec and abroad for more than 30 years.
“We are pleased to share our expertise and know-how to promote Quebec’s resources for the benefit of our economy and the energy transition.
“This agreement represents both the recognition of wind power as an essential source in Quebec’s energy mix and a vote of confidence for our team who, in collaboration with Energir for more than 15 years, has made wind power development on the Seigneurie de Beaupre territory successful.”
The partners are continuing to develop the des Neiges wind farm projects in order to meet Hydro-Quebec’s anticipated energy needs.
Field studies and environmental impact studies are being carried out, as well as the preliminary engineering work to specify the configurations of the wind projects.
A first round of public information and consultation sessions was carried out in 2021 and the process will continue with several local stakeholders.
New information sessions will be organised soon.
The three projects would be located close to the existing Seigneurie de Beaupré wind farms, which total 364MW and are operated by Boralex and Energir.
Both companies have been developing the privately owned site for over 15 years.