La Romaine, October 19, 2017

Official Opening of Romaine-3 Generating Station Québec, a Leader in Clean, Renewable Energy

Romaine-3 generating station officially opened today. This facility is part of the Romaine complex, the largest since the Baie-James project. The project will consist of four hydropower generating stations valued at $6.5 billion that will eventually supply electricity to the equivalent of over 450,000 homes in Québec. Construction, which began in 2009 and will be completed around 2020, is creating an average of 1,000 jobs per year, 45% of which are in the Côte-Nord region.  

Romaine-2, the most powerful generating station in the complex, was commissioned in December 2014, while Romaine-1 generating station began operations in November 2015. Construction of Romaine-4 generating station is currently under way, providing jobs for over 1,300 workers. 

Quotes 

“Québec’s choices have positioned us as a leader in sustainability. Construction of the Romaine complex is an eloquent demonstration of our creativity, know-how and expertise, as well as our passion for innovation. Our government intends to continue to pursue this vision. An unprecedented, rapid transformation is occurring in the world around us, especially in the energy sector. Together, we will maintain our clean energy leadership by converting emerging challenges into opportunities.”

Philippe Couillard, Premier of Québec

“This new generating station will enable us to provide clean, renewable and reliable energy, boost our capacity to meet Quebecers’ energy needs and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is also a significant step towards achieving the ambitious objective we set for ourselves in the Energy Policy: to become a leader in the renewable energy sector and build a strong new low-carbon economy.”

Pierre Moreau, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Minister responsible for the Plan Nord

“The agreements with Native communities created various funds that have been used to support economic development in the communities, promote training for jobs at the Romaine site, and enhance Innu Aitun, the Innu way of life. Construction and clearing contracts have created jobs for members of the neighboring communities. Romaine is an example of collaboration and development of the territory that generates real, positive spinoffs for Native communities.”

Geoffrey Kelley, Minister responsible for Native Affairs

“This new generating station, in addition to meeting Québec’s power requirements for the next 100 years, will enable us to sell clean, renewable and reliable energy to our neighbors in the United States, thereby helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding work by our employees and our suppliers, which has made it possible to build this project within budget and on schedule.” 

Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hydro-Québec

For more information: http://www.hydroquebec.com/data/romaine/pdf/fiche-centrale-ro-3.pdf (this hyperlink will open a new window)