Jean-Lesage Generating Station (Manic-2)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Jean-Lesage Generating Station (Manic-2)

How long is the guided tour?

The guided tour lasts 90 minutes: 30 minutes in the amphitheater and 60 minutes in the generating station.

Does the entire tour take place indoors?

No. A large portion of the tour (45 minutes) takes place outside.

In case of rain, be sure to dress appropriately and bring an umbrella.

Is it absolutely necessary to make a reservation, even for one or two people?

Because spaces are limited, reservations are mandatory, regardless of the number of people, and must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

Please note: reservations are not taken by phone.

Is the tour accessible to people with reduced mobility?

The tour is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility.

An elevator and a van are available to avoid walking and stairs. There are no wheelchairs available.

Please note: A large portion of the tour is on foot. There are five steps to climb up, and approximately 30 steps down.

Is the tour suitable for young children?

No. The tour is suitable for school-age children. For safety reasons, children under two are advised not to participate in the tour. (See next question.)

Why is the tour not recommended for children under two?

The tour is not recommended for the following reasons: 

• Visitors must wear personal protective equipment. However, the size of this equipment is not suitable for children under two.
• The generating station is an industrial property with high heat, noise and dust levels.

Is there a significant amount of walking during the tour?

Yes. The first part of the tour (30 minutes) takes place at the amphitheater and the second part (90 minutes) takes place by bus and on foot.

What clothing is recommended for the tour?

Flat, closed-toe shoes are required.

We recommend checking the weather forecast. In case of rain, make sure to dress appropriately and bring an umbrella.

Why do I need to show identification to access the facilities?

This is a requirement of Hydro-Québec’s corporate security management team to protect personnel, visitors and equipment. 

Visitors aged 18 and over must present identification (driver’s licence, health insurance card or passport) before they can tour the facility.

What time do the tours take place?

A. During the summer, there are four tours daily, at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. The tours are generally given in French, for an English tour please call us in advance.

Are you allowed to take photos in the generating station?

No. For safety reasons, it is prohibited to bring a camera or any other electronic device (cell phone, camera, tablet, MP3 player, portable music player or computer) into the generating station.

However, you are permitted to take photos in the interpretation center and outside the security perimeter.

Are you allowed to bring a handbag or backpack into the generating station?

No. Visitors must leave their personal belongings (purses, backpacks, cell phones, bags, etc.) in a locked locker provided free of charge.

Please note: Visitors with a health problem (such as diabetes or severe allergies) requiring them to transport medical supplies must mention this at registration so that special measures can be taken. 

Are water bottles allowed in the generating station?

Yes, but visitors must carry them at all times. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle.

Can people with pacemakers visit the generating station?

No. The electromagnetic fields in power plants may disrupt pacemaker operation. As a precaution, visitors with pacemakers may not participate in this part of the tour. They are invited to watch an engaging presentation about the generating station instead.

Are strollers or baby carriers allowed in the generating station?

No. It is too dangerous.

Is there a restaurant or cafeteria on site?

No. There are no restaurants, cafeterias, vending machines or dining areas on site. However, tables are available for people who have brought their own food. 

Guides can also recommend restaurants to people who would like to eat in the surrounding area.

Are there any public washrooms on site?

Yes. There are washrooms for men and women in the interpretation center.

How do you get to the generating station?

The tour begins at the generating station’s interpretation center.

From Baie-Comeau, take Route 389 to kilometre 22. The entrance is just before the bridge that crosses the Manicouagan River.

Note: Certain GPS navigation systems direct you through Chemin Rex Fort and Chemin de la Scierie. Although this route leads to the Jean-Lesage generating station (Manic-2), it is not recommended, as it is a gravel road and there are no signs.

The best option: First go to Baie-Comeau, then start your navigation system. 

Are pets allowed on the tour?

No. For safety reasons, only service animals are allowed.