The registration period for the tender opened on May 21 and will close on July 21, 2025. Bids must be submitted by March 31, 2026, with submissions opening the following day. The tender targets solar projects with a capacity of up to 25 MW, significantly larger than Quebec’s existing solar farms, which have a combined capacity of about 9 MW.
This initiative is part of Hydro-Quebec’s broader strategy to deploy 11 GW of clean energy by 2035, including 3 GW from solar sources, as outlined in a recent announcement. The utility aims to enhance the region’s renewable energy infrastructure, contributing to a sustainable and reliable power supply for Quebec.
A consultation document from Hydro-Quebec emphasizes the focus on smaller-scale projects to diversify the province’s energy mix. The tender encourages the development of new solar facilities to meet growing energy demands while supporting environmental sustainability.
In 2024, Canada added 314 MW of solar capacity, bringing its total installed photovoltaic capacity to over 5 GW. Hydro-Quebec’s tender represents a significant step toward expanding Quebec’s contribution to the national solar landscape, aligning with broader efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources.
The tender process is designed to be accessible, with clear timelines and requirements to encourage participation from developers. By prioritizing projects that can connect to the grid by 2029, Hydro-Quebec aims to accelerate the adoption of solar energy, strengthening the province’s energy security and reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.
