Hydro-Québec is well aware of the concerns raised by the construction of a new electrical substation in the Latin Quarter in Montreal, particularly those expressed in an opinion letter published on Tuesday, June 11 in THE Duty. Let’s be clear: we will be bold in creating an infrastructure that will have absolutely nothing to do with an ordinary electrical substation.
First, the construction of a new substation is essential to the modernization of the electrical infrastructure east of downtown and in the south of the Plateau-Mont-Royal borough. The project is not only necessary for the sustainability and reliability of the network, but it is also an essential cog in the energy transition of the sector. By supporting, for example, the electrification of transportation and the replacement of oil heating systems, this work will directly benefit all residents of the Latin Quarter and surrounding areas.
Given the urban context and the cultural vocation of the district, we are committed to showing great ambition and openness in carrying out this project. Far from wanting to “disfigure the neighborhood,” Hydro-Québec is committed to holding an architectural competition — a first in Quebec for this type of infrastructure — so that the substation building integrates harmoniously into the urban fabric.
It is important to explain why the land located north of the Grande Bibliothèque (BAnQ) is the preferred location for building the new Berri station. This must be built within a defined perimeter in the center of the area to be served, which greatly limits the options.
Four potential locations were studied, two of which are possible from a technical point of view: the land north of the Grande Bibliothèque and the Voyageur islet. The latter is, however, the subject of an affordable housing project by the City of Montreal. It is in this context that we are currently finalizing the real estate transaction with BAnQ.
For its part, BAnQ engaged in this negotiation in order to ensure positive outcomes, both for the institution and for the vitality of the neighborhood.
The current Berri station will be dismantled after the construction of the new station. Thus, Hydro-Québec is committed to consulting the City of Montreal on future uses of the site.
Next steps
At the end of the land acquisition process, Hydro-Québec will be able to continue the preliminary project. This will be an opportunity to analyze the possibilities of underground construction, possible height configurations and to determine ways to reduce the building’s footprint, for example. The objective is to carry out the best possible project.
This will also be the time to consult the population and groups affected by this project in order to take their concerns into account. A consultation has been underway for several weeks and will intensify from the fall. The population will be informed throughout the process. In addition, Hydro-Québec will carry out an environmental impact study and participate in information sessions with the Office of Public Hearings on the Environment, the body responsible for evaluating this type of project.
Finally, Hydro-Québec will demonstrate great ambitions in carrying out this project, whether in terms of architecture, visual appearance, integration into its environment and community consultation.