The Régie de l’énergie hands down its decision in the blockchain file

The Régie de l’énergie has issued its decision in the blockchain file. We’re happy with this development as it will allow us to move forward with a selection process for the allocation of a 300-MW block of electricity to the blockchain industry. This 300 MW will be in addition to the 158 MW already granted to existing customers approved by Hydro-Québec, and to the 210 MW granted to existing customers approved by municipal distributors. The result is a total of 668 MW of electricity for the blockchain industry.

The creation of a reserved block and the requirement to curtail electricity use during peak hours at Hydro-Québec’s request (up to a maximum of 300 hours a year) will allow us to provide power to these new customers without any negative impacts on our capacity balance. This will enable us to protect the low rates we offer our customers.

The selection process will be launched in the coming weeks and will be based on the following selection criteria and weightings, as presented in the Régie de l’énergie’s decision:

Economic development criteria:

• Number of direct jobs in Québec per MW: 30%
• Total payroll of direct jobs in Québec per MW: 30%
• Investment in Québec per MW: 30%

Environmental criteria:

• Heat recovery: Curtailed electricity use/total electricity use: 10%