More dams and wind farms in Quebec’s future

Quebec plans to expand hydroelectric and wind-generated electricity projects and increase its power exports as part of its new 10-year strategic energy plan.

The strategy, unveiled last week, said Quebec should:

* strengthen its energy security;
* make better use of energy for economic development;
* use hydroelectricity, wind energy, hydrocarbon reserves and natural gas supplies;
* give local and regional communities and First Nations “more say”;
* use energy more efficiently;
* become a leader in sustainable development.

Based on this strategy, Quebec plans to spend $25 billion, create 70,000 jobs through new projects, and boost power exports.

“We have a hydro-electric potential that can ensure our energy security, support the establishment of prosperity-creating industries and generate the ability to export to neighboring markets,” Quebec Premier Jean Charest said in a statement.

Charest said hydro projects now under consideration in northern Quebec constitute the “second phase” of the James Bay project – a project he praised for its contribution to the “economic vitality” of Quebec.

Charest also said Quebec will produce another 4,000 megawatts of wind power by 2015, about 10 per cent of peak electricity demand in Quebec.