Hydro-Québec Grid Upgrades for Biomass Plant Integration in Opitciwan

Official title: Modification of Hydro-Québec facilities, including the construction of a new sectioning post to optimize and integrate energy produced by a forest biomass cogeneration plant in Opitciwan

Closed Environmental Assessment Environment & Climate Indigenous & Northern Natural Resources
Hydro-Québec wants to upgrade its power grid in Opitciwan, an Atikamekw community in northern Quebec, to connect a new forest biomass cogeneration plant. The project involves clearing about 4 hectares of forest, building a new sectioning post with a 4 MW battery storage system, and installing new power lines. This would help the remote community shift from diesel to renewable energy.

Why This Matters

Live in or near Opitciwan? This project could bring cleaner, more reliable power to your community. The shift from diesel to biomass means less pollution and potentially lower energy costs. Forest clearing and construction may affect local wildlife and land use.

What Could Change

If approved, Hydro-Québec would clear 41,600 square meters of forest and build new infrastructure including a sectioning post, battery storage system, and power lines. The community's power grid would be modernized to handle renewable energy from the biomass plant, reducing reliance on diesel generators.

Key Issues

  • Should 4 hectares of forest be cleared for the new power infrastructure?
  • How will the project affect local wildlife and traditional land use?
  • Are the environmental benefits of biomass energy worth the construction impacts?

Indigenous Consultation

This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.