The development of energy production by wind turbine must remain in the hands of the private sector, affirms the Minister of Economy and Energy Pierre Fitzgibbon, who is betting first on this form of production to determine whether the construction of new hydroelectric dams are needed.
Mr. Fitzgibbon pleaded Thursday for the status quo when Hydro-Quebec needs to significantly increase its electricity production.
“Wind turbines, we can subcontract that to people as we already do,” said the minister in a press scrum before the start of a meeting of the deputies of the Coalition avenir Québec (CAQ).
At most, the Crown corporation could play a role in deciding where to establish these new parks.
“Hydro-Québec must determine where the wind turbines should be placed,” said Mr. Fitzgibbon. To achieve this, we must involve the municipalities and ensure that it is socially acceptable. »
The Minister affirmed that energy restraint measures and the deployment of wind turbines are the first steps that will be used to determine whether to build new dams.
“The dam is the result. We can do things before. Can we do enough things beforehand so as not to cause roadblocks? Ideally yes, but maybe not. »
More specifically, Mr. Fitzgibbon believes that Quebec has some catching up to do in the development of its wind power sector.
“Having spent a lot of time in Europe with companies that make wind energy, I think that we are underperforming, we are not doing enough,” he explains.
Churchill Falls
Prime Minister François Legault announced during the election campaign his intention to relaunch the construction of hydroelectric dams. He wants to have this card in his negotiations with Newfoundland and Labrador for the important supplies of the Churchill Falls power station, whose contract expires in 2041.
After accumulating energy surpluses for years, Hydro-Québec will need new supplies starting in 2027. By 2050, 100 to 150 TWh will have to be added to the portfolio of the state-owned company, which currently produces 200 TWh.
On Thursday, Fitzgibbon said negotiations should begin soon with Newfoundland and Labrador.
“Listen, 2041 is tomorrow,” he summed up. I think that, as a government, we must be rigorous, ensure that there will be continuity. »
Mr. Fitzgibbon did not rule out the possibility of partnerships with Newfoundland for the development of other dam projects on the Lower Churchill.
“The discussion with Newfoundland, I think it’s important for the purposes of making sure that we maintain Churchill and that we maintain development,” he said.
Further details will follow.