Hydro-Québec’s 2027–2041 supply plan estimates that existing resources would leave Quebec 7.7 terawatt-hours (TWh) short of its electricity needs in 2029, as demand increases and some contracts expire. Filed with Quebec’s energy regulator, the Régie de l’énergie, the plan puts the need at 67.1 TWh in 2041 before proposed additions. These are planning requirements, not a prediction of blackouts.
Hydro-Québec Distribution projects regular electricity sales will rise from 182.2 TWh in 2026 to 240.1 TWh in 2041, a 57.9 TWh increase. The plan attributes more than 84% of expected sales growth to transport electrification, emerging sectors and industrial-process decarbonization. Sales to data centers are forecast to climb from 1.9 TWh to 12.6 TWh over that period.
The filing links the supply pressure to rising needs and the expiry of existing agreements for wind, biomass cogeneration and small-hydroelectric power. The Canadian Press reported that imports from neighboring provinces or the United States could help cover temporary shortfalls while new supplies are developed. The filing does not identify import counterparties, volumes or a purchase arrangement. It says Hydro-Québec Distribution no longer trades on short-term markets, with Hydro-Québec supplying those needs.
Hydro-Québec’s illustrative plan calls for nearly 24,000 megawatts of new capacity by 2041: about 11,000 megawatts of wind, 9,000 megawatts of hydropower, 2,750 megawatts of solar, 500 megawatts of battery storage and 350 megawatts of peaking thermal generation. By 2035, the company aims to save 21 TWh of energy and reduce power demand by 3,500 megawatts. Hydro-Québec reports that it has reached 20% of its energy-savings target.
The company expects retained supplies, new generation and efficiency measures to meet customer needs reliably. Its filing leaves the mix of additions after 2035 open to adjustment. The Régie docket lists the review as in progress and gives no decision date.
