Hydro-Quebec Distribution has announced the three winning bids in response to a request for proposals (RFP) issued last year to purchase a 450 MW block of wind power generated in Quebec.
The government-owned utility says the three winning projects total 446.4 MW, and the average price of the accepted bids is C$.076/kWh, including C$0.013/kWh for transmission costs.
Hydro-Quebec has awarded power purchase agreements (PPAs) to the following winners:
– EDF EN Canada for the 224.4 MW Nicolas-Riou project, which is slated for completion in December 2017 and will use Vestas turbines;
– Invenergy Wind Canada for the 74.8 MW Roncevaux project, which is slated for completion in December 2016 and will use GE turbines; and
– RES Canada and partner Pattern Renewable Holdings Canada for their 147.2 MW Mont Sainte-Marguerite project, which is slated to come online in December 2017 and will feature Siemens turbines.
The Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) has hailed the results of the RFP.
"We are glad to see Quebecers reaping the benefits of competition leading to highly advantageous prices," comments Jean-Francois Nolet, vice president of CanWEA.
"The result of this latest request for proposals shows that, more than ever, Quebec must continue to show leadership in the development of its wind energy industry," adds Nolet. "We are already enjoying the benefits of having a well-established industry in our province. Let's stay the course for the good of all of Quebec, from Montreal to the regions."
Over the coming weeks, Hydro-Quebec Distribution will work with the project proponents to finalize the PPAs. The contracts will then be submitted to the Regie de l'energie for approval.
