In accordance with its Action Plan 2035, Hydro-Québec has announced the beginning of regulatory procedures to convert the 350 MW TC Energy power plant in Bécancour for use during peak periods. The plant will be supplied with renewable natural gas. This initiative is intended to provide Hydro-Québec with an ‘insurance policy’ for the supply of extra power during cold periods. It will be used on an occasional basis to maintain grid stability and reliability when peak demand is reached.
The conversion of this power plant is one of several initiatives Hydro-Québec is undertaking to ensure grid reliability during winter peaks. Another is the voluntary reduction of electricity use during peak periods. For example, Hydro-Québec’s offers and programmes for residential and business customers – such as Hilo, dynamic pricing and demand response management – for residential and business customers, help save approximately 2600 MW of power during peak periods.
Growing needs during winter peaks suggest the need for further possible solutions. The current pace of growth in electricity demand has a direct impact on winter peak periods. In February 2023, a historic peak in demand exceeding 43 GW was reached, and in December 2025, Hydro-Québec recorded three consecutive historic peaks for the month of December.
It will be therefore be necessary for Hydro-Québec to integrate facilities that can provide additional power and it believes it has a wide variety of strategies it can put in place during the coldest days of winter.
The next step for the winter of 2026 is for TC Energy to initiate procedures to obtain the authorisations necessary for conversion of the Bécancour power plant. And between 2026 and 2028, subject to the required approvals, the power plant equipment will undergo the necessary conversion. Commissioning is slated for 2028–2029.
