Procurement
In keeping with our acquisition of goods and services policy (in French only), we adhere to best business and management practices. Our aim is to:
- Procure, with a view to sustainable development, quality goods and services at the best possible cost and the appropriate time.
- Guarantee fair and confidential treatment of all suppliers while avoiding any conflict of interest.
- Foster economic benefits for Québec in compliance with the applicable laws and trade agreements.
- Foster competition in the purchasing process.
Strategic transition
Hydro-Québec initiated a transition to strategic sourcing a few years ago in a bid to create value while ensuring that its current and future needs for goods and services are met. The company’s vision is reflected in the acquisition strategies put in place as well as in risk sharing, thereby ensuring healthy competition in the market. This transition, with a focus on speed, quality and profitability, means Hydro-Québec is able to contribute to the strategic objectives regarding costs.
Authorizing service contracts
The conclusion of any service contract by a public organization is subject to the authorization of its manager, in this case the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hydro-Québec, except as defined under the Act respecting workforce management and control within government departments, public sector bodies and networks and state-owned enterprises.
Different types of RFPs
(See our current tender calls)
RFP (request for proposals)
A contracting process through which Hydro-Québec either negotiates various aspects to the proposals submitted or accepts them as-is. There are two types of RFPs: “open” and “closed” (by invitation only).
Call for expressions of interest
Process through which Hydro-Québec explores a new market by collecting information from suppliers in the field.
Call for qualification
Qualifying process where Hydro-Québec asks potential suppliers to submit an application in order to prequalify for bidding.
This process ensures that suppliers are qualified to meet the requirements pertaining to the products or services requested. For certain goods, it also includes a certification process consisting of technical checks performed to determine whether the products in question fulfil our performance requirements.
Trade agreements
Our acquisition of goods and services policy (in French only) sets out the guiding principles regarding market solicitation strategies. In addition to these principles, Hydro-Québec is subject to and required to comply with trade agreements (in French only).
Hydro-Québec complies with the following trade agreements:
- Agreement for construction sector labour mobility between Ontario and Québec (in French only)
- Ontario-Québec Trade and Cooperation Agreement (OQTCA) (in French only)
- Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) (in French only)
- Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) (in French only)