Innergex Renewable Energy Inc. and Mi'gmaq communities have signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with Hydro-Quebec Distribution for a 150 MW wind energy project located in Quebec's Gaspe Peninsula.
The Mesgi'g Ugju's'n Wind Farm LP entity is controlled 50-50 by Innergex and by three Mi'gmaq communities of Quebec: Gesgapegiag, Gespeg and Listuguj. Innergex is responsible for the management of the construction and the operation of the wind farm.
"This project is significant to the socio-economic development of the Mi'gmaq communities of Gesgapegiag, Gespeg and Listuguj," declares Chief Claude Jeannotte, chairperson of the Mi'gmawei Mawiomi. "It will create wealth and jobs not only for our members, but also for our neighbors in Gaspesie and elsewhere in Quebec. We see great opportunities for the future."
The 150 MW wind project is located on public lands in the Avignon Regional County Municipality in Quebec. The environmental impact assessment for the project has been completed and submitted to regulators, and negotiations with potential turbine suppliers are under way.
Once all authorizations have been received, the partners expect to begin pre-construction activities, such as wood clearing, later this year and to begin construction in 2015. Commercial operation of the wind farm is slated for the end of 2016.
