Generation is to permanently cease at the Saint-Narcisse generating station on the Rivière Batiscan in the Mauricie region, Hydro-Québec has announced, with work set to start this year on a six year project to dismantle the project’s dam.
Hydro-Québec halted operations at Saint-Narcisse in 2018 after extensive damage was discovered at the 15MW facility, with estimates to repair the facility coming in at around $180 million.
“By comparison, the cost of decommissioning the generating station and restoring the site to its natural state should amount to some $30 million. It therefore makes sense to cease production at the facility and return the river to its original bed,” commented Roger Gosselin, Senior Director – Planning, Strategies and Expertise, Groupe – Innovation, production, santé, sécurité et environnement at Hydro-Québec.
Some of the buildings, which have historical value, will be preserved. Hydro-Québec is currently in discussions with the community to determine how make the best use of the site.
