Should Hydro-Québec Expand the Sainte-Marguerite-3 Dam Near Sept-Îles?
Official title: Adding Capacity to Sainte-Marguerite-3 Generating Station Project
Hydro-Québec wants to add a third turbine to its Sainte-Marguerite-3 hydroelectric dam on Quebec's North Shore. The upgrade would boost the station's capacity by 440 megawatts—enough to power roughly 100,000 homes. Construction would include a 300-metre underground water pipe connecting to the new turbine.
Why This Matters
Live on Quebec's North Shore? This project could mean construction jobs and more reliable power for the region. It's also part of Quebec's push to generate more clean electricity as demand grows from electric vehicles and data centres.
What Could Change
If approved, Hydro-Québec could install a third generating unit at the existing dam site. The station's total capacity would jump from 882 to 1,322 megawatts. Federal environmental conditions may be attached to protect the Sainte-Marguerite River.
Key Issues
- What are the environmental impacts of adding capacity to an existing hydroelectric dam?
- How will construction affect the Sainte-Marguerite River and surrounding ecosystem?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.