Eastmain–Sarcelle–Rupert
Complex

A major project and successful collaboration
with host communities

Construction of the Eastmain‑Sarcelle‑Rupert complex, led by the Société d’énergie de la Baie James (SEBJ), a Hydro‑Québec subsidiary, began in 2002 and includes the following components:

  • Eastmain‑1 generating station, located at the outlet of Paix des Braves reservoir, with an installed capacity of 507 MW.
  • Bernard‑Landry generating station (originally Eastmain‑1‑A), with an installed capacity of 768 MW, located near Eastmain‑1 generating station
  • Sarcelle generating station, with an installed capacity of 150 MW, located at the outlet of Opinaca reservoir
  • The partial diversion of the Rivière Rupert, which channels some of the Rupert’s flow to Bernard‑Landry Eastmain‑1 and Sarcelle generating stations, and then to Robert‑Bourassa, La Grande‑2‑A and La Grande‑1 generating stations

A canal with a concrete weir was built at Lac Sakami’s outlet in order to keep the level of the lake under the maximum level agreed upon.

To integrate the output of the new generating stations into the grid, a 315‑kV line was built between the Eastmain‑1 and Bernard‑Landry switchyards and another between Sarcelle and Eastmain‑1 switchyards.

* Note that the information on this webpage specifically addresses the Eastmain‑1‑A and Sarcelle generating stations and the Rupert diversion structures.

Learn more about the Eastmain‑Sarcelle‑Rupert complex

Advantage of the complex

The main advantage of these facilities is that they optimize the generating capacity of some of the existing generating stations in the La Grande complex.

Partial diversion of the Rivière Rupert

A green kilowatt: the same water is used to generate electricity four times.

Environmental assessment

The numerous studies conducted before the project was carried out provided valuable knowledge, most notably on wildlife and plants.

Programs, follow‑ups and mitigation measures

Hydro‑Québec developed and implemented an extensive follow‑up program with mitigation measures extending over 15 years.

Relations with the Cree Nation

Resulting from the signing of the Paix des Braves, the project was carried out in a spirit of partnership and collaboration with the Cree Nation.

Photo gallery

Aerial view of the Eastmain‑Sarcelle‑Rupert facilities.

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Contact us

We’d like to continue the discussion with you.
We welcome any questions or comments you might have about the project.

Info‑project line

1 877 653-1139

Contact

Véronique Lamarre

Advisor – Community Relations