The initiative, valued at approximately $1 billion, involves 57 turbines and is expected to drive economic growth in the Côte-de-Beaupré region. During construction, it will employ around 500 workers, while creating 15 permanent jobs for operation and maintenance. Additionally, over $80 million will be distributed to host communities to support local development.
Hugues Girardin, Executive Vice President and General Manager, North America, Boralex, stated: “I would like to salute the outstanding collaboration with our partners Énergir and Hydro-Québec in the realization of this vital project for Québec. We’ve been fortunate enough to successfully develop and operate wind farms on the Seigneurie de Beaupré for nearly 15 years. It’s the strength of this partnership that will enable us to bring the Des Neiges - Secteur sud project to fruition, thereby contributing to the province’s energy independence and sustainable economic growth.”
The financing package includes a $733 million construction loan, which will transition to a term loan once electricity deliveries begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. A $170 million bridge loan will cover costs related to a switchyard refund, reducing the need for immediate equity investment and optimizing the project’s capital structure. A $57 million guarantees facility is also part of the financing, with Desjardins Group serving as the Administrative Agent.
Borea Construction, the general contractor, began preliminary work in December 2024 and will collaborate with Quebec-based companies and suppliers for the main construction phase, set to start in the coming months. The project will enhance the region’s renewable energy capacity, supporting local energy consumption and contributing to Quebec’s climate resilience goals.
The Des Neiges - Secteur sud wind project underscores a commitment to sustainable energy development, fostering job creation and economic benefits while strengthening Quebec’s clean energy infrastructure for domestic use.
