Hydro-Québec’s 16th Sustainability ReportQuébec Hydropower: Key to the Energy Transition

At a time of profound change in the energy sector, Hydro-Québec’s new Sustainability Report showcases the company’s exceptional contribution to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and securing the supply of clean and renewable electricity to the U.S. Northeast.

The report notes that in 2017, net electricity exports reached a historic volume of 34.4 TWh, which avoided 8.4 million tons of GHG emissions – equivalent to taking about two million cars off the road.

Overall, our GHG emissions have decreased by 91% since 1990, a contribution toward the Québec government’s objective of a 37.5% reduction by 2030.

“Northeastern North America is clearly committed to an energy transition in which clean and renewable energy sources play an increasingly important role,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hydro-Québec. “For several years now, our electricity exports have allowed us to considerably reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the northeastern part of the continent. We have lots of clean, flexible and reliable energy to offer, and we can contribute even more to the concerted effort towards a low-carbon economy.”

Other 2017 highlights

99.8% of energy from renewable sources

A total of 99.8% of the electricity Hydro-Québec supplies its customers comes from renewable energy sources, with 94.5% from hydropower.

Some of the lowest rates in North America

The Régie de l’énergie approved an increase of 0.7% for rates going into effect on April 1, 2016 and 2017, and 0.3% for rates going into effect on April 1, 2018. For the third year in a row, we have respected our commitment to keep rate increases lower than or equal to inflation.

Increased customer satisfaction

The average call wait time for our customer relations centers is down by 15% compared to 2016, while the number of complaints has decreased by 24%. Public satisfaction with the company is now at 92%.

Community investments of $27.6 million

Hydro-Québec’s community investments include donations and sponsorships, including to Centraide, financial support for educational institutions, and contributions made through the Integrated Enhancement Program and the Fondation Hydro-Québec pour l’environnement.

Gender parity on the board of directors

As at December 31, 2017, our Board of Directors has 16 members with a variety of professional backgrounds and from different parts of Québec. There are equal numbers of women and men on the Board.

For more information, please consult the Sustainability Report 2017 and Hydro-Québec’s specialized Web site on sustainable development.

Information:

Francis Labbé
Hydro-Québec
Press Officer
514 289-3423
Labbe.francis@hydro.qc.ca