As part of Hydro-Québec’s upcoming call for tenders for the purchase of renewable energy, the MRC Pontiac has set up a renewable energy committee with a mandate to look into strategic planning for the development of this type of energy on our territory. For this process, the committee benefits from CREDDO support, including for the publication, in February 2024, of the solar energy call for interest on the Quebec government’s electronic tendering system (SEAO).
“Given its strong solar potential, the MRC Pontiac sees a solar energy project on its territory as a development opportunity for the region and would like to position itself strategically with a partner to respond to future calls for tenders from Hydro-Québec,” says Jane Toller, Warden of the MRC Pontiac.
Following the call for interest in solar energy, the committee had an initial meeting with a potential partner, Innergex, whose bid met the criteria required by the committee. Last August, the MRC passed a resolution adopting a collaboration agreement with the company. This agreement, officially signed in October 2024, stipulates that the roles of the Pontiac MRC are to collaborate with the company in carrying out the social acceptability procedures with the population, including aboriginal communities, and to help Innergex in the search for land for equipment to evaluate the MRC’s solar potential and, if necessary, install solar panels. It is important to note that the MRC’s participation is non-financial.
Today, Innergex is actively seeking land to evaluate the area’s solar development potential, including the strength of the sun’s rays, the hours of sunshine, technical considerations for siting and, above all, the receptiveness of the various stakeholders to a potential project. Before submitting a project, it’s important to document the project’s true solar potential, associated costs and other important information. The MRC will be happy to assist the promoter in his research.
“We are proud to collaborate with the MRC Pontiac on this solar energy project, a strategic partnership that demonstrates our commitment to developing sustainable energy solutions and working closely with local and Indigenous communities. This initiative will not only help us better understand the solar potential of the region but also promote an inclusive and beneficial energy transition for all,” said Michel Letellier, President and Chief Executive Officer at Innergex.
