Hydro-Québec - Power Generation


	Nuclear
	Fossil fuels
	Biomass, hydrogen and solar

Other sources of power generation


The role of thermal generation at Hydro-Québec

Nuclear power plants generate steam through the fission of atoms; the steam then drives a turbine. These generating stations produce very few GHG emissions.

Hydro-Québec operates only one, Gentilly-2, in service since 1983. It is located near Trois-Rivières. With an installed capacity of 675 megawatts, it can meet the electricity needs of 100,000 residential customers. Operated continuously, Gentilly-2 is very efficient and it plays an important role within Hydro-Québec's generating fleet.

Gentilly-2 generating station

The fission of uranium-235 atoms (A) creates heat that converts water into steam. Under pressure, this steam (B) spins a turbine (C), which drives an alternator (D). The steam condenses and the water is returned to the steam generators (E) to begin the cycle again.

Next >>>

Thermal Generation at Hydro-Québec

Some thermal power stations operate continuously to meet baseload energy needs; for instance, diesel generating stations and Gentilly-2 nuclear power plant. Others, such as gas-fired facilities and the oil-fired conventional thermal generating station located near Sorel-Tracy, operate only when demand is high and hydroelectric facilities are working at maximum capacity.