Beauharnois Generating Station

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Beauharnois Generating Station

How long is the guided tour?

The guided tour lasts 90 minutes: 45 minutes in the amphitheater and 45 minutes in the generating station.

What time do the tours take place?  

During the summer, there are four tours daily, at: 9:30 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:45 p.m.

The tours are generally given in French, for an English tour please call us in advance

Spaces are limited, so we strongly recommend booking at least 24 hours in advance.

Does the entire tour take place indoors?

Most of the tour is indoors, with a portion outside. In case of rain, be sure to dress appropriately and bring an umbrella.

Please note: The temperature inside the generating station can vary significantly from the outdoor temperature. In summer, if it is 25°C outside, it will be about 35°C in the generating station.

Is it absolutely necessary to make a reservation, even for only 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: To confirm your reservation, it is best to make your reservation by phone. The guides will then give you all the necessary instructions before your visit.

Is the tour accessible to people with reduced mobility?

The tour is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Two wheelchairs are available to visitors: one in the generating station and another in the interpretation center.

Please note: Half of the tour is on foot, and there are many stairs to climb up and 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 2?

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 2.
• 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. Half of the tour takes place in the interpretation center and the other half in of the generating station, where you have to walk, including up and down two flights of stairs).

What clothing is recommended for the tour?

Flat, closed-toe shoes are required. In case of rain, make sure to dress appropriately and bring an umbrella.

Please note: The temperature inside the generating station can vary significantly from the outdoor temperature. In summer, if it is 25°C outside, it can reach 35°C inside the generating station.

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.

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.

Are water bottles allowed in the generating station?

Yes, but visitors must carry them at all times.

We recommend staying well hydrated, especially in the summer, as it can be hot in the power plant.

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 visit. They are invited to watch an engaging presentation about the generating station instead.

Are strollers or baby carriers allowed in the generating station to transport a child?

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, guides can recommend restaurants to people who would like to eat in the surrounding area.

Are there public washrooms on site?

Yes. There are washrooms for men and women, as well as a wheelchair-accessible washroom, in the interpretation center.

How do you get to the generating station?

The tour starts at the generating station’s interpretation center. Getting there:

• Take exit 22 off Highway 30.
• Turn left at the intersection onto Route 236, which will become Boulevard de l’Énergie.
• Follow the signs for guided tours.
• Once you have arrived on site, a public parking lot is on the right.

Note: You can enter “Hydro-Québec, centre d’interprétation de la centrale de Beauharnois” into Google Maps to automatically be directed to the interpretation center.