Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 28, GE Vernova Inc. has announced a C$22.2 million investment to expand its hydropower and grid equipment manufacturing facilities in Quebec, Canada, to meet growing energy demands. The investment allocates C$16.2 million to the Sorel-Tracy hydropower facility and over C$6 million to the La Prairie plant, which specializes in high-voltage grid equipment, supporting Canada’s energy transition.

The Sorel-Tracy facility, operational since 1957, will increase its production capacity by approximately 20% through new equipment and expanded infrastructure. Supported by a government loan of up to C$2.5 million, this expansion will create 28 new jobs while maintaining 75 existing positions. The site, employing about 100 of GE Vernova’s 500 Hydro Power business staff in Canada, manufactures turbines for hydropower projects both domestically and internationally.

Frederic Ribieras, CEO of GE Vernova’s Hydro Power business, stated: “To effectively execute on these projects, in a capacity-constrained industry, GE Vernova has established long-term collaboration agreements with various hydropower asset owners, that will enable early engagement and close collaboration between the companies.” A 15-year agreement with Ontario Power Generation grants exclusivity for modernizing up to 25 hydropower units in the Niagara region, with turbines produced at Sorel-Tracy.

The La Prairie facility will receive over C$6 million to enhance production of dead tank circuit breakers, essential for grid stability, to meet demand from Hydro-Québec and the North American market. Heather Chalmers, CEO of GE Vernova Canada, noted: “Our technology provides close to 40% of Canada’s electricity and these investments represent our commitment to securing Canada’s energy future and helping our customers meet the doubling of demand while accelerating Canadian innovation.”

With nearly 60% of Canada’s electricity generated from hydropower and an average plant age of 53 years, modernization is critical. Jean-Bernard Émond, Member of the National Assembly for Richelieu, said: “GE Vernova is a major player in the ongoing energy transition around the world. With growing operations in Sorel-Tracy, the company’s project will be able to meet strong demand for hydroelectric power, particularly for modernization projects in Canada, benefiting the local economy here in Richelieu.”

Patrick Péloquin, Mayor of Sorel-Tracy, added: “Sorel-Tracy occupies a strategic position in the hydroelectric industry. It was in Sorel-Tracy that many of the turbines for Hydro-Québec’s major dams were built in the 20th century. And decades later, it will be in Sorel-Tracy that the large Quebec and Canadian turbines will be modernized thanks to our local expertise.” The investment, celebrated at a groundbreaking event in Sorel-Tracy, supports Quebec’s leadership in sustainable energy and local economic development.