Énergie hydroélectrique Ouiatchouan S.E.C. brought together a number of dignitaries to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the commissioning of the Val-Jalbert mini-center. The event provided an opportunity to look back over the years, highlight the vision that brought this community energy project to fruition and look to the future. The PEK Development team assisted Ouiatchouan Hydroelectric Power in organizing this event.
The result of an innovative partnership between the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation, the MRC de Maria-Chapdelaine, the MRC du Domaine-du-Roy and the municipality of Chambord, this project represents the calling card of the community energy model.
In the same vein, a video has been produced to leave a trace for future generations. It can be viewed by clicking here: https: //youtu.be/cvmvogtvQ74.
In 10 years, the mini-center has generated $62.5 million in cash , which has been paid out to the four partners in proportion to their stake in the project. This amount exceeds initial forecasts.
Over the years, Énergie hydroélectrique Ouiatchouan S.E.C. has always sought to maintain a respectful collaboration with the team at the Village historique de Val-Jalbert. The presence of the mini-power plant is an important element of the tourist site ‘s offer.
The completion of the Val-Jalbert mini-hydropower project has encouraged other communities to take charge of developing projects on their territory using the community energy model. At a time when Quebec needs to increase its energy production to meet growing demand, and when the issue of social acceptability is essential to the success of projects, the Val-Jalbert mini power plant model is certainly an example to follow.
The Société de l’énergie communautaire du Lac-Saint-Jean developed the Val-Jalbert mini power plant project. Subsequently, Énergie hydroélectrique Ouiatchouan took charge of construction, and continues to manage operations to this day.
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“Ten years ago, when development of the project began , many doubts were raised. Ten years later, we can say that the Val-Jalbert mini-hydropower project is a complete success , of which we can all be very proud,” said François Rompré , Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors of Énergie hydroélectrique Ouiatchouan.
“We’ve shown that First Nations and municipalities can forge win-win partnerships that generate collective benefits. We have a development model for future generations,” said outgoing Chief Gilbert Dominique of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation.*
” This collaboration with First Nations enables us to carry out joint projects, find solutions together and strengthen our sense of belonging to the territory. The Val-Jalbert mini-power plant is an example to follow,” said Yanick Baillargeon , Reeve of the MRC du Domaine-du-Roy.
“The funds generated by the mini-hydropower plants have had a very significant leverage effect , multiplying investment in the region. They make the area more attractive and enable us to develop ambitious projects for the future,” said Luc Simard, Reeve of the MRC de Maria-Chapdelaine.
“10 years ago , an innovative project came to fruition, both in terms of its integration into the region and its tangible benefits for the community. It ‘sa project that fully honours the three pillars of sustainable development: social, environmental and economic,” said Luc Chiasson, Mayor of Chambord.
“For visitors , it’s rare to have such privileged access to a mini power station. Few tourist sites can count on a source of revenue of this nature. It’s very clear that the project was carried out with respect for the visual and acoustic environment,” emphasized Yan Lapierre, President of the Corporation du parc régional de Val-Jalbert.
“The Val-Jalbert mini power plant project was a daring move on the part of the community. The greatest lesson we can learn from the Val-Jalbert mini power plant project is to never be afraid to dare,” concluded Denis Taillon, former president of the Société de l’énergie communautaire du Lac-Saint-Jean.
About Énergie hydroélectrique Ouiathouan S.E.C.
Énergie hydroélectrique Ouiatchouan S.E.C. is the limited partnership that manages the Val-Jalbert mini hydroelectric plant. It is made up of four partners: Pekuakamiulnuatsh Takuhikan (45%), the MRC de Maria-Chapdelaine (22.5%), the MRC du Domaine-du-Roy (22.5%) and the municipality of Chambord (10%).
Photo: From left , partner representatives Patrick Courtois, vice-chief of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation; Luc Simard, reeve of the MRC de Maria-Chapdelaine; Yanick Baillargeon, reeve of the MRC du Domaine-du-Roy; Luc Chiasson, mayor of Chambord; and François Rompré, vice-president of Énergie hydroélectrique Ouiatchouan. (Photo: Mathieu Langevin)
