Quebec's rivers are known for being majestic, but also for their hydroelectric potential. Faced with increasing energy needs to achieve the energy transition, meet demand during peak periods and satisfy the economic growth plan of the Government of Quebec, it intends to build new hydroelectric dams.
However, the very fast-flowing rivers relatively close to the south of the province have already been disturbed to build power stations and dams. Since this precious natural resource is not infinite and social acceptability has not been achieved, is it realistic to build new hydroelectric dams? Which rivers could still be harnessed?
25 rivières avec un potentiel hydroélectrique à protéger!
Information on hydroelectric production capacity in Quebec, the potential of rivers and the estimation of possible reservoirs is rare and difficult to access, even in the archives of National Library and Archives of Quebec. Nous avons posé la question à Hydro-Québec, mais notre demande d’accès à l’information a été refusée.
Hydro-Québec plans to add 3,800 to 4,200 MW new hydroelectric capacities by 2035, which includes the construction of new hydroelectric plants and the optimization of its existing plants. We are a long way from the overall objective of 150 to 200 TWh more to be produced annually by 2050...
Pour plus de détails, vous pouvez découvrir notre plus récent dossier sur les 25 dernières grandes rivières sauvages. Une cartographie de ces rivières est accessible.
Energy glossary
Power
According to many experts, the power (expressed in MW) refers to an instantaneous capacity to respond to demand during critical periods, particularly during extreme cold when heating demand is high (called peak period). Let's see it like the power of a car engine, the number of turbines used. For hydroelectricity, power is often associated with the head or elevation difference for a river.
Energy
Theenergy (expressed in TWh) refers to the total production capacity of an electrical installation, to the stored energy. Let's see it like a car's gas tank or the storage capacity of a tank regulated by the flow of a river.
Energetic transition
The energy transition refers to the shift away from the use of energy produced from fossil fuels to favor renewable energy sources (wind, solar, hydroelectricity, biomass, geothermal, etc.) which emit little or no greenhouse gases .
Considering that most of these rivers are very far from major centers (the transport cost would be considerable!), and that the construction of dams could cause significant and irreversible consequences for nature and local communities, Quebec has every interest in turning towards lower impact alternatives to achieve the energy transition.
Source
Norman Beaudet
Manager, mobilization strategies, energy and climate
Fondation Rivières
514-272-2666, ext. 302
Photo credit: Rivière du Petit Mécatina by Gabriel Rondeau/Noryak Aventures
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