View to Continuous Improvement.Thus: Electricity Transmission Environmental Management

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Environmental Performance Report 1998

Our Commitment for Today and Tomorrow This policy sets out Hydro-Québec's commitment Table of Contents toward the environment. Hydro-Québec emphasizes the judicious use of resources from a sustainable development perspective.This policy presents Hydro-Québec's orientations regarding the environment, as well as public health and safety. A Word from the President and Chief Executive Officer and from the Chairman of the Board ...... 5

Introduction and Context ...... 7

The Environment at Hydro-Québec Organizational Structure ...... 8 An Exceptional Event ...... 8 Our Environmental Management ...... 9 Issues ...... 15 Environment Installations Projects Electricity Generation A Word from the Executive Vice President ...... 42 A Word from the Executive Vice President ...... 18 Environmental Management ...... 43 Commitment of the Business Unit ...... 19 Projects under Way ...... 43 General Principles Impacts of the Ice Storm ...... 19 Environmental Management ...... 20 Procurement and Services Hydro-Québec is a leader in the field of environment.Thanks to hydropower, the company produces clean, renewable and Environmental Activities ...... 22 A Word from the General Manager ...... 46 safe energy, thus protecting our environmental heritage for future generations. It develops profitable, environmentally New Projects ...... 25 Commitment of the Support Unit ...... 47 acceptable projects that are well received by communities. It practises rigorous environmental management that complies Impacts of the Ice Storm ...... 47 with ISO 14001, with a view to continuous improvement.Thus: Electricity Transmission Environmental Management ...... 47 A Word From the President ...... 26 Commitment of the Business Unit ...... 27 Hydro-Québec at the Heart of the Québec Community Impacts of the Ice Storm ...... 27 Environmental Enhancement ...... 52 Environmental Management ...... 27 Social Commitment ...... 55 Local Agreements and Partnerships ...... 55 Sustainable Development Public Health and Safety Electricity Distribution A Word from the General Manager ...... 32 Hydro-Québec on the International Scene To contribute to sustainable development and to the To ensure public health and safety, Hydro-Québec Commitment of the Business Unit ...... 33 International Projects ...... 57 protection of the global environment, Hydro-Québec undertakes to: Impacts of the Ice Storm ...... 33 Our Expertise beyond Our Borders ...... 57 undertakes to: • design, manage and maintain its facilities and Environmental Management ...... 33 Conclusion ...... 59 • give preference to hydropower, other sources of conduct operations in such a way as to control the renewable energy and energy efficiency to meet risk of bodily injury; Publications, Conference Papers and Posters ...... 60 the needs of its customers; • inform the public on how to use its products and • use resources as efficiently as possible and practise services safely; Acronyms, Abbreviations and Symbols ...... 62 reduction at source, reuse and recycling. • put in place and maintain emergency measures Definitions ...... 63 and plans that are coordinated with those of local Continuous Improvement responders and the relevant authorities, and make of Environmental Performance them public. To improve its environmental performance, Hydro-Québec undertakes to: Research Units of Measure • include environmental concerns in its decision- To improve its performance in terms of the environment, $M: millions of dollars making processes and at all stages in the life-cycle sustainable development and public health, Hydro-Québec ppm: parts per million of its products, services and facilities, in such a way undertakes to: mSv: millisievert as to meet recognized environmental standards, • carry out or support research and development kV: kilovolt prevent pollution, manage impacts at source, mitigate on the environmental and health effects of its TJ: terajoule negative impacts and maximize positive impacts; operations, as well as on environmental or energy- kW: kilowatt • adopt a transparent approach by encouraging efficient technologies. MW: megawatt (one million watts) the participation of local communities in the environmental assessment of its proposed GW: gigawatt (one million kilowatts) projects and activities; GWh: gigawatthour (one million kilowatthours) • make its business partners and suppliers aware of TWh: terawatthour (one billion kilowatthours) the need for responsible environmental management of their activities, products and services. )Energyconversion ofthermal efficiency a) three timesmore efficientthanthermalornuclearfacil onaverage, results show thathydroelectric facilitiesare, input).These Energy conversion isthetotal netenergy outputdividedby efficiency thetotal energy inputneededto generate theelectricit Energy Conversion Efficiency oa 719tne 4. ons429tonnes 412.9 tonnes 9.7 tonnes 643.5 tonnes tonnes 400 2.7 tonne 0.5 tonnes 190 tonnes 450 tonnes tonnes 17,199 3 Hydro-Québec tonne 0.5 1997. datafrom CEA Annual Report * Industry tonnes 1,933 tonnes 7,208 tonnes 4,392 tonnes Low-level equipmentcontains 50and10,000ppmofPCB. between 3,666 N.B.: CEAmember utilities Total Low level instorage Low level in service High level instorage High level inservice Type ofPCB PCB inStorage and Use only 4%ofthisinventory. inventory showed thatHydro-Québec has aninventory wasmadeofPCBquantitiesheld by CEAmemberutilities.This In 1997, Percentage generating facilities 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 0 5 The reduction inquantitiesoflow-levelThe reduction PCBin storage from1997to1998stems thedisposalplanbegunin1996. CEA –1997Minimum CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 HQ –1998 QCEA HQ Hydro-Québec’s Performance sawoe–19 971998 1997 as awhole–1997 .. Thisindicator was nolongerusedin1998. N.B.: Percentage Energyconversion ofnuclear efficiency b) generating facilities 29 30 31 the CEA. are presentedforpurposesofcomparison with dataavailable theefficiency for1997 However, CEA –1997Minimum CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 QCEA HQ Compared Industry theCanadianWith Electric .. Thisindicator was nolongerusedin1998. N.B.: Percentage Energyconversion of efficiency c) 100 hydroelectric generatinghydroelectric facilities 20 40 60 80 0 the CEA. are presentedforpurposesofcomparison with dataavailable theefficiency for1997 However, CEA –1997Minimum CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 QCEA HQ ities. y (netenergy output/energy ae 051 – 3,028* 3,028 – 262 245 15 2 191 185 5 1998 1 1,003 905 50 1998 Hydro-Québec 48 1997 asa whole–1997 Total CEA memberutilities Soil Water Atmosphere contaminated Environment Number ofSpills Drn aur’ c tr,alarge numberofspills occurredasaresultofbreaksinnumerous electrical devices. January’s* During ice storm, Percentage Internal EnergyEfficiency transmission anddistributionsystems. energyinternal useandlinelosseson electric indicator illustrates purchased (imports).This generateddivided by and thetotal electricity sold ofelectricity facilities isthetotal quantity forInternal energy generating efficiency Internal EnergyEfficiency 100 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 CEA –1997Minimum CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 HQ –1998 QCEA HQ N.B.: In 1998,Hydro-Québec disposed of,by incineration, disposedof,by In1998,Hydro-Québec N.B.: Percentage of Electrical InsulatingOil Recycling andEnergyRecovery Reuse, 100 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 company’s PCBeliminationplan. operation was carried outunderthe this oil.This inthepercentageleading toareduction ofreuse 174,295 litres ofPCB-contaminated insulatingoil, CEA –1997Minimum(N/A) CEA –1997Maximum(N/A) CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 HQ –1998 QCEA HQ ecuigiesom (ice storm only) (excluding ice storm) .. Hydro-Québec’s thermalpower plants are used N.B.: Percentage Combustion By-products ofSolid Utilization 100 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 any solidcombustion by-products. Hydro-Québec didnotsell In 1997and1998, withaviewtoreuseorrecycling. third parties, until theirvolume issufficienttoallow saleto and residuewhichtheyproduce areaccumulated smallquantitiesofash mainly inpeakperiods.The * CEA –1997Minimum(0%) CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average(N/A) HQ –1997(0%) HQ –1998(0%) QCEA HQ oa 719tne 4. ons429tonnes 412.9 tonnes 9.7 tonnes 643.5 tonnes tonnes 400 2.7 tonne 0.5 tonnes 190 tonnes 450 tonnes tonnes 17,199 3 Hydro-Québec tonne 0.5 tonnes 1,933 tonnes 7,208 tonnes 4,392 tonnes 3,666 CEAmember utilities Total Low level instorage Low level in service High level instorage High level inservice Type ofPCB PCB inStorage and Use only 4%ofthisinventory. inventory showed thatHydro-Québec has aninventory wasmadeofPCBquantitiesheld by CEAmemberutilities.This In 1997, Energyconversion ofthermal efficiency a) three timesmore efficientthanthermalornuclearfacil onaverage, results show thathydroelectric facilitiesare, input).These Energy conversion isthetotal netenergy outputdividedby efficiency thetotal energy inputneededto generate theelectricit Energy Conversion Efficiency * Industry data from CEA Annual Report 1997. datafrom CEA Annual Report * Industry Low-level equipmentcontains 50and10,000ppmofPCB. between N.B.: Percentage generating facilities 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 0 5 The reduction inquantitiesoflow-levelThe reduction PCBin storage from1997to1998stems thedisposalplanbegunin1996. CEA –1997Minimum CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 HQ –1998 QCEA HQ Hydro-Québec’s Performance sawoe–19 971998 1997 as awhole–1997 .. Thisindicator was nolongerusedin1998. N.B.: Percentage Energyconversion ofnuclear efficiency b) generating facilities 29 30 31 the CEA. are presentedforpurposesofcomparison with dataavailable theefficiency for1997 However, CEA –1997Minimum CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 QCEA HQ Compared Industry theCanadianWith Electric .. Thisindicator was nolongerusedin1998. N.B.: Percentage Energyconversion of efficiency c) 100 hydroelectric generatinghydroelectric facilities 20 40 60 80 0 the CEA. are presentedforpurposesofcomparison with dataavailable theefficiency for1997 However, CEA –1997Minimum CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 QCEA HQ ities. y (netenergy output/energy ae 051 – 3,028* 3,028 – 262 245 15 2 191 185 5 1998 1 1,003 905 50 1998 Hydro-Québec 48 1997 asa whole–1997 Total CEA memberutilities Soil Water Atmosphere contaminated Environment Number ofSpills Drn aur’ c tr,alarge numberofspills occurredasaresultofbreaksinnumerous electrical devices. January’s* During ice storm, Percentage Internal EnergyEfficiency transmission anddistributionsystems. energyinternal useandlinelosseson electric indicator illustrates purchased (imports).This generateddivided by and thetotal electricity sold ofelectricity facilities isthetotal quantity forInternal energy generating efficiency Internal EnergyEfficiency 100 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 CEA –1997Minimum CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 HQ –1998 QCEA HQ N.B.: In 1998,Hydro-Québec disposed of,by incineration, disposedof,by In1998,Hydro-Québec N.B.: Percentage of Electrical InsulatingOil Recycling andEnergyRecovery Reuse, 100 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 company’s PCBeliminationplan. operation was carried outunderthe this oil.This inthepercentageleading toareduction ofreuse 174,295 litres ofPCB-contaminated insulatingoil, CEA –1997Minimum(N/A) CEA –1997Maximum(N/A) CEA –1997Average HQ –1997 HQ –1998 QCEA HQ ecuigiesom (ice storm only) (excluding ice storm) .. Hydro-Québec’s thermalpower plants are used N.B.: Percentage Combustion By-products ofSolid Utilization 100 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 any solidcombustion by-products. Hydro-Québec didnotsell In 1997and1998, withaviewtoreuseorrecycling. third parties, until theirvolume issufficienttoallow saleto and residuewhichtheyproduce areaccumulated smallquantitiesofash mainly inpeakperiods.The * CEA –1997Minimum(0%) CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average(N/A) HQ –1997(0%) HQ –1998(0%) QCEA HQ niomna riig1 o2%41%5.7% 4.17% 15to 20% Yes Yes Yes 50% 30% Thepercentage shown forHydro-Québec doesnotincludethe number ofemployees whoattended technical training sessions 60% N.B.: environmental training Question Evidence ofanEffective Employee Awareness and Training Program or sustainabledevelopment andtargets objectives includesenvironmental ofutilitieswhosereport Proportion or sustainabledevelopment indicators includesenvironmental ofutilitieswhosereport Proportion on theirenvironmental performance Question ofEnvironmental PerformancePublic Reporting a) CO intensive useof Tracy thermalgenerating stationin1998brought aboutasubstantialincrease For inlevels ofa Hydro-Québec, • Companies whoseemissionlevel isnull(0g/kWh)donotgenerate any electricity. • The following pointsapplyto thethree indicators concerning atmosphericemissions. Atmospheric Emissions Proportion ofutilitiesproducingProportion apubliclyavailable report Proportion of electric utility employees utility thathave ofelectric Proportion received g/kWh 1,000 1,200 200 400 600 800 hyae oee,considerably lower thantheaverage for utilities. Canadian however, electric They are, 0 employees thanmostCEAmemberutilities. company’s explainedby thatithasfarmore thefact apparentlypoorresult isfurther incorporating environmental segments.The 2 Emissions HQ –1997( HQ –1998(11.0 g/kWh) CEA –1997Minimum(0 g/kWh) CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average QCEA HQ 1.39 g/kWh)

g/kWh b) SO 10 12 14 0 2 4 6 8 2 msin c)NO Emissions CEA –1997Minimum(0g/kWh) CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average(0.93g/kWh) HQ –1997(0.009g/kWh) HQ –1998(0.098g/kWh) QCEA HQ 971997-1998 1997 9719 1998 1997 1997 E Hydro-Québec CEA E Hydro-Québec CEA

g/kWh 0.5 1.5 2.5 0 1 2 3 x Emissions CEA –1997Minimum(0g/kWh) CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997(0.017g/kWh) HQ –1998(0.034g/kWh) QCEA HQ tmospheric emissions. throughout thecompany by theyear 2002. clearly illustrate itsdeterminationtoestablish thissystem territory, of EMSimplementationteamsacross Hydro-Québec’s wellasthedeployment plans,as andaction their objectives,targets identiﬁcation alongwith ofenvironmental aspects principles, declarations ofenvironmental timetables, activity smoothly.The environmental criteria. record timeandincompliance withthecompany’s strict very the gridinMontréalandMontérégieregionswas rebuiltin of large A part overlines extending thousandsofkilometres. torestorepower transmission efforts anddistribution ordinary ice stormthatstruckQuébeccalled forextra- challenges.The Hydro-Québec metsomemajorenvironmental In 1998, and accountability. research publicsafety, of ourenvironmentalperformance, continuous improvement sizing sustainabledevelopment, empha- toadoptanewenvironmentpolicy the opportunity processesmaking andtheirday-to-day business. are gradually integrating theenvironmentintotheirdecision- anumberofouradministrative units Indeed, accountability. (EMS) basedontheISO14001modelincreasesourmanagers’ a way toreduce CO social perspectives. acceptable energy source fromboththeenvironmentaland remainsconvinced It thathydropower is themost emissions. thousands ofjobs. growth inQuébec’s various regionsandtohelpsupport hasenabledHydro-Québecprojects tocontribute toeconomic mentation ofnumerouslocal environmental enhancement imple- development andwithAboriginal communities.The regional roleinenvironmentalenhancement, partnership o yr-ubcsBado ietr,1998alsomeant For Hydro-Québec’s Board ofDirectors, toinstituteISO14001are progressing efforts In thisregard,the ofenvironmentalmanagementsystems The introduction Hydro-Québec as iscontinuing topromotehydroelectricity ntelcllvl Hydro-Québec continued toplaya thelocalOn level, 2 emissions andcontrol greenhousegas Officer and from the Chairman oftheBoard andfrom theChairman Officer A Word from thePresident andChiefExecutive and local communities. fortheenvironment butwithduerespect to achievinggrowth, its Inaccordance with andenhanceprotect theenvironment. environment attesttoHydro-Québec’s genuinedesireto Aboriginal communities. ourrelations with healthandsafety,and responsibility,public the company’s environmentalmanagementandsocial is tomake recommendations totheBoard ofDirectors concerning mandate Committee,whose and Corporate Responsibility Social We shouldalsopointoutthecontribution oftheEnvironment East. IndiaandtheMiddle America, put togooduseinSouth andknow-how were environmentalexpertise Our projects. environmental rolethroughitsinvolvement inanumberof Strategic Plan President andChiefExecutive Officer André Caillé Chairman oftheBoard JacquesMénard L. designedtocontributeThese manyactivities toabetter Hydro-Québec played an theinternationalscene, On Hydro-Québec isresolutelycommitted , 5 niomna riig1 o2%41%5.7% 4.17% 15to 20% Yes Yes Yes 50% 30% Thepercentage shown forHydro-Québec doesnotincludethe number ofemployees whoattended technical training sessions 60% N.B.: environmental training Question Evidence ofanEffective Employee Awareness and Training Program or sustainabledevelopment andtargets objectives includesenvironmental ofutilitieswhosereport Proportion or sustainabledevelopment indicators includesenvironmental ofutilitieswhosereport Proportion on theirenvironmental performance Question ofEnvironmental PerformancePublic Reporting a) CO intensive useof Tracy thermalgenerating stationin1998brought aboutasubstantialincrease For inlevels ofa Hydro-Québec, • Companies whoseemissionlevel isnull(0g/kWh)donotgenerate any electricity. • The following pointsapplyto thethree indicators concerning atmosphericemissions. Atmospheric Emissions Proportion of electric utility employees utility thathave ofelectric Proportion received ofutilitiesproducingProportion apubliclyavailable report g/kWh 1,000 1,200 200 400 600 800 hyae oee,considerably lower thantheaverage for utilities. Canadian however, electric They are, 0 employees thanmostCEAmemberutilities. company’s explainedby thatithasfarmore thefact apparentlypoorresult isfurther incorporating environmental segments.The 2 Emissions HQ –1997( HQ –1998(11.0 g/kWh) CEA –1997Minimum(0 g/kWh) CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average QCEA HQ 1.39 g/kWh)

g/kWh 0.5 1.5 2.5 0 1 2 3 x Emissions CEA –1997Minimum(0g/kWh) CEA –1997Maximum CEA –1997Average HQ –1997(0.017g/kWh) HQ –1998(0.034g/kWh) QCEA HQ tmospheric emissions. throughout thecompany by theyear 2002. clearly illustrate itsdeterminationtoestablish thissystem territory, of EMSimplementationteamsacross Hydro-Québec’s wellasthedeployment plans,as andaction their objectives,targets identiﬁcation alongwith ofenvironmental aspects principles, declarations ofenvironmental timetables, activity smoothly.The thousands ofjobs. growth inQuébec’s various regionsandtohelpsupport hasenabledHydro-Québecprojects tocontribute toeconomic mentation ofnumerouslocal environmental enhancement imple- development andwithAboriginal communities.The regional roleinenvironmentalenhancement, partnership social perspectives. acceptable energy source fromboththeenvironmentaland remainsconvinced It thathydropower is themost emissions. a way toreduce CO and accountability. research publicsafety, of ourenvironmentalperformance, continuous improvement sizing sustainabledevelopment, empha- toadoptanewenvironmentpolicy the opportunity processesmaking andtheirday-to-day business. are gradually integrating theenvironmentintotheirdecision- anumberofouradministrative units Indeed, accountability. (EMS) basedontheISO14001modelincreasesourmanagers’ environmental criteria. record timeandincompliance withthecompany’s strict very the gridinMontréalandMontérégieregionswas rebuiltin of large A part overlines extending thousandsofkilometres. torestorepower transmission efforts anddistribution ordinary ice stormthatstruckQuébeccalled forextra- challenges.The Hydro-Québec metsomemajorenvironmental In 1998, ntelcllvl Hydro-Québec continued toplaya thelocalOn level, Hydro-Québec as iscontinuing topromotehydroelectricity 1998alsomeant For Hydro-Québec’s Board ofDirectors, toinstituteISO14001are progressing efforts In thisregard,the ofenvironmentalmanagementsystems The introduction 2 emissions andcontrol greenhousegas Officer and from the Chairman oftheBoard andfrom theChairman Officer A Word from thePresident andChiefExecutive and Corporate Social Responsibility Committee,whose mandate Committee,whose and Corporate Responsibility Social We shouldalsopointoutthecontribution oftheEnvironment East. IndiaandtheMiddle America, put togooduseinSouth andknow-how were environmentalexpertise Our projects. environmental rolethroughitsinvolvement inanumberof and local communities. fortheenvironment butwithduerespect to achievinggrowth, its Inaccordance with andenhanceprotect theenvironment. environment attesttoHydro-Québec’s genuinedesireto Aboriginal communities. ourrelations with healthandsafety,and responsibility,public the company’s environmentalmanagementandsocial is tomake recommendations totheBoard ofDirectors concerning Strategic Plan nteitrainlsee Hydro-Québec played an theinternationalscene, On President andChiefExecutive Officer André Caillé Chairman oftheBoard JacquesMénard L. designedtocontributeThese manyactivities toabetter Hydro-Québec isresolutelycommitted , 5 Hudson Bay Introduction Québec and Context

Laforge-2

Robert-Bourassa Brisay La Grande-2-A La Grande-3 Hydro-Québec is pleased to present its fourth Environmental La Grande-4 Laforge-1 Newfoundland La Grande-1 & Labrador Performance Report.This report contains the most signiﬁcant Radisson Chissibi Tilly results and activities of the company’s business and support units. Churchill Falls The highlights of 1998 included: Lemoyne • ISO 14001 implementation efforts, which are making James Bay satisfactory progress and which we review in each of the sections devoted to the business and support units; • adoption of a new environment policy, which is reproduced in full on the inside front cover of this report; Albanel Némiscau Montagnais • participation by Hydro-Québec in the founding of the Canadian Hydropower Association, to promote the advantages of hydroelectricity to governments and Reservoir in the La Grande complex Sainte-Marguerite-3 target publics (see page 15); • institution of a series of measures for optimizing certain Manic-5-PA Manic-5 generating facilities (see page 24); Arnaud Chibougamau • implementation of a program for evaluating the • start of work to reinforce the transmission system Manic-3 environmental compliance of all transmission substations (see page 43); (see page 31); Abitibi St. Lawrence River Micoua • recovery, reuse, recycling or energy recovery of large quantities of materials during the ice storm and the ensuing Outardes-4 Manic-2 • publication of a guide to ornamental trees and shrubs as Outardes-3 Manicouagan part of the campaign Le bon arbre au bon endroit (the right cleanup operation, with expertise developed since the Bersimis-1 Outardes-2 tree in the right place) (see page 37); introduction of the 3RE program (see page 47). Bersimis-2 Chamouchouane

Bergeronnes Hydro-Québec at a Glance Saguenay Périgny Trenche 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994

La Vérendrye Total installed capacity (MW)1 31,472 31,397 31,413 31,125 30,400 New Brunswick Hydroelectric generating stations (MW) 29,203 29,203 29,220 28,932 28,207 Nuclear generating stations (MW) 675 675 675 675 675 Jacques-Cartier Laurentides Lévis Conventional thermal generating stations (MW) 1,594 1,518 1,518 1,518 1,518 Gentilly-2 Bécancour Nicolet Generating station Total sales (TWh) 161 163 163 166 158 Grand-Brûlé Duvernay Tracy rated 300 MW or more Exports (TWh) 1915192419 Canada Chénier Carignan Carillon Boucherville Appalaches Generating station Transmission system (km) 32,144 32,036 30,557 30,831 30,478 Hertel rated 300 MW or more Distribution system (km) 105,705 104,640 104,078 102,785 101,285 Ontario Beauharnois under construction Châteauguay Des Cantons Maine Number of customer accounts 3,481,030 3,456,768 3,427,260 3,398,944 3,345,616 735-kV substation Number of employees 20,847 20,416 23,320 24,852 25,406 Interconnection Total revenue from sales ($M) 8,812 8,423 7,754 7,680 7,335

735-kV line 1. Hydro-Québec also has access to most of the output of Churchill Falls power plant, which has a nominal capacity of 5,428 MW. Vermont New York ± 450 kV direct-current line

United States

New Hampshire Atlantic Ocean 7

Massachusetts Hudson Bay Introduction Québec and Context

Laforge-2

Bergeronnes Hydro-Québec at a Glance Saguenay Périgny Trenche 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994

735-kV line 1. Hydro-Québec also has access to most of the output of Churchill Falls power plant, which has a nominal capacity of 5,428 MW. Vermont New York ± 450 kV direct-current line

United States

New Hampshire Atlantic Ocean 7

Massachusetts Environmental Performance Report 1998 The Environment at Hydro-Québec

Organizational 1998 Advisory Committee on the Environment and Community Affairs Structure Chair Environment Personnel Environmental Louise Roy An Exceptional Event Management President At Hydro-Québec, the environment is L.R. Services-conseil From January 5 to 9, 1998, southwestern of concern to everyone. Managers are Environmental Commitment Québec was struck by an ice storm ECR responsible for managing the environ- and Responsibility (ECR) Program Members mental impacts of their activities.To of exceptional intensity and duration. Up to 100 mm of freezing rain fell on André Bouchard assist them, 141 employees specialized In connection with its participation some areas.The storm had significant Professor in environment are distributed throughout in the ECR program of the Canadian Committees and Chairs consequences for Hydro-Québec’s Institut de recherche en biologie végétale the company’s various administrative Electricity Association (CEA), Hydro- system: more than 115 transmission Aurélien Gill units. At the operations level, the Québec produces an account of its Advisory Committee on the lines and 3,400 km of distribution lines President, Gestion GAMAC employees’ role entails providing performance every year.This report Environment and Community Affairs were damaged to varying degrees. In Commissioner, Commission nationale managers with support and expertise is based on performance indicators In 1985, Hydro-Québec created the addition to the environmental impacts des revendications territoriales specific to their field of specialization. that are common to all electric utilities Environmental Advisory Committee, with on the facilities, vegetation and land- autochtones In addition, the role of Hydro-Québec’s that belong to the CEA. Last February, a mandate to advise the company on its scape, a series of spills occurred. Michel Gariépy Environment department is to monitor the CEA published its first annual report strategic environmental orientations and Approximately 40% of the defective Dean, Faculty of Design strategic environmental issues, propose presenting the overall results of the to provide recommendations on various equipment – mostly distribution Université de Montréal corporate orientations and assure member utilities. It can be consulted environmental matters. In 1996, it became transformers removed from the system Hydro-Québec’s senior management of on the CEA Web site (www.canelect.ca). the Advisory Committee on the Environ- Lorne Giroux during the crisis – lost over half of the control over its management system For most of the indicators, Hydro- ment and Community Affairs (ACECA) Professor, Faculty of Law oil they contained. Altogether, more Université Laval and environmental performance. Québec compares favorably with with new responsibilities for analyzing than 3,000 separate spills occurred in Canadian electric utilities as a whole. matters related to the company’s Roger Lanoue the region as a whole, for a total of The result of these indicators and relations with various communities. General Manager about 110,000 litres of oil, with little Hydro-Québec’s performance for 1997 In 1998, the ACECA held its 61st and Strategic Planning and Environment or no PCB contamination.The repercus- and 1998 are presented at the begin- 62nd meetings. During the year, the Hydro-Québec sions of this event on the activities of ning of this report. composition of the Committee was Claude-Hillaire Marcel each of the business and support units modified and it was assigned a new Professor, Environmental Research Chair are discussed in their respective sections The Environmental Management mandate. It will now play more of a Université du Québec à Montréal of this report. System as per ISO 14001 decision-making assistance role rather Marie-France Raynault Board of Directors In general, implementation efforts are than an advisory role.The members Physician, Department proceeding well and should allow us must express opinions on matters for of Preventive Medicine Environment and Corporate to meet or even exceed the timetable which decisions have not yet been Hôpital Saint-Luc Social Responsibility Committee outlined by the CEA program; this made.The subjects tackled in 1998 Ed Villeneuve timetable calls for implementation mainly concern the new environment Vice-President, Environmental Projects President and Chief of the environmental management guidelines and the environmental and Audits and Industrial Hygiene Executive Officer system (EMS) by the end of 2002. performance assurance program. Noranda Inc.

Vice-présidence Groupe Business unit in which an EMS must be established Planification stratégique Directeur général adjoint Groupe Production Division TransÉnergie Projets et Affaires internationales et Développement des affaires Generation TransÉnergie Distribution Procurement Installations Corporate Strategic Planning Deputy Chief Generation TransÉnergie International Affairs and Services Projects Level Executive Officer 38 employees 21 employees and Business Development and Projects Scheduled implementation date 2000 2002 2000 1999-2002 2000 1999 Timetable approved by senior Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes management to comply with Direction principale Direction Direction principale scheduled implementation date Direction Approvisionnement principale Projets Environnement Financial resources provided Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes et Services Distribution d'équipement to ensure compliance with timetable Procurement Installations Environment Distribution and Services Projects Gap analysis completed Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Not applicable 22 employees 26 employees 11 employees 23 employees by the end of 1998

8 9 Environmental Performance Report 1998 The Environment at Hydro-Québec

8 9 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Mercury 2.École polytechnique de Montréal In connection with this chair, experimental NSERC Industrial Chair in Site fishing was carried out in natural lakes, Bioremediation in cooperation with the Nemaska Crees. Revision of Guidelines These tests were intended to verify the In addition to Hydro-Québec, this chair effectiveness of intensive fishing as a has 10 other industrial partners.The As part of the comprehensive review method for reducing mercury levels in chair’s first term began in June 1994 of all its policies, directives and supple- fish.The results will allow an assessment and was scheduled to end in May 1999. The company’s minimum financial mentary guidelines begun in 1997, Chairs of the feasibility of applying this 3.Université de Montréal Environmental contribution is $60,000 a year. Hydro- Hydro-Québec adopted its new policy, measure in recently created reservoirs. Design Chair Relations with Interested Parties Hydro-Québec funds three university Québec also finances specific studies Our Environment, in September 1998. research chairs in the environment field. This policy aims to comply with Greenhouse Gases related to decontamination work Hydro-Québec, along with other partners ISO 14001, which emphasizes the wise Complaint Management Continuing sectoral studies begun carried out as part of the chair’s activ- (Transports Québec and Société 1. Hydro-Québec–NSERC–UQÀM use of resources from a perspective of Members of the public with complaints, in 1997 and new studies conducted ities. In 1998, this meant an allocation d'affichage Omni), has supported the Environmental Research Chair sustainable development.The policy questions or comments about Hydro- in 1998 on GHGs focused mainly on of $40,000.The research focused mainly Université de Montréal Environmental presents Hydro-Québec’s orientations Québec’s environmental performance the following areas of interest: on reducing the costs of current tech- Design Chair since 1996.The company is In partnership with the Natural Sciences with respect to the environment as well should call 1 800 363-7443 or the nologies and developing innovative, investing an annual amount of $150,000 and Engineering Research Council • the spatial and temporal repre- as public health and safety.The text is Customer Service number on their inexpensive and environmentally viable over a five-year period. of Canada (NSERC) and the Université sentativeness of CO and CH reproduced on the inside front cover electricity bill. Questions and comments 2 4 approaches. By the end of this term, Landscape is an issue of prime du Québec à Montréal (UQÀM), Hydro- emissions measured since 1993 in of this report. It has been distributed are passed on to the responsible envi- some 30 master’s and Ph.D. students importance for Hydro-Québec.The nature, Québec continued its commitment to the La Grande 2, Laforge 1 and to all the company’s personnel, and can ronment personnel in Hydro-Québec’s received training in the restoration of scale and location of its structures and this chair.This is the final year of a second Cabonga reservoirs; be consulted at Hydro-Québec’s Web various districts or to Environment contaminated sites. facilities require it to consider this five-year term. In 1998, Hydro-Québec site (www.hydroquebec.com).Those department personnel. Complaints are • carbon cycle in reservoirs; essential element of spatial organization, allocated $577,000 to this chair, for a interested may obtain a copy by calling dealt with by Hydro-Québec’s complaint which expresses deep-seated cultural total investment of approximately • carbon cycle throughout drainage 1 800 363-7443. handling system. and social values held by Quebecers. $2.5 million by the end of this term.The basins (preliminary study); chair comprises two separate sections: In 1998, the chair’s research focused on: • decomposition of organic matter mercury and greenhouse gases (GHGs). • development of a visual landscape Nature of complaint or claim 1996 1997 1998 in flooded soils; monitoring system and formulation Poorly executed work 421 467 236 • modeling of GHG emissions; of a methodological guide for charac- terizing and managing landscapes of Pruning 121 127 115 • development of a GHG database heritage interest in the Laurentians; Contamination caused by a spill or fire 59 116 116 and measurement methods; • landscape issues related to the Maintenance of site 26 28 27 • use of stable carbon isotopes to various electrical generation options; evaluate GHG flows (preparatory Visual impact — 32 26 study). • ways of integrating distribution Noise 20 17 16 facilities into their sites, and economic Interference — 16 6 The study findings should provide analysis of subdivision constraints in important additional details on the new residential construction projects; Erosion — 5 2 actual role of hydroelectric reservoirs Other 47 — — in the GHG balance on the local and • the color of pedestal-supported provincial levels.They will permit a equipment and the graphic rules Total environment-related complaints and claims 694 808 544 clearer definition of R&D to be carried to be applied; Total number of written complaints and claims 8,140 6,578 6,637 out between 1999 and 2003 in order • the development aspect of the envi- to close this file. ronmental enhancement program, Environment-related percentage out of total 8.5% 12.3% 8.2% specifically landscape quality. Average handling time 22 days 19 days 29 days* * The increase in average complaint-handling times in 1998 is due to events that occurred during January’s ice storm.

10 11 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Environmental Compliance

Infraction Notices Environment Month Environmental Interns The particular risks related to compliance In 1998, Hydro-Québec continued its Training and Awareness problems and, more specifically, legal Apart from its training programs, program of university internships in proceedings under way, infraction notices Environmental training and awareness environment. Under this initiative, Hydro-Québec continues to contribute pending and inquiries are all contained are key elements of an effective environ- 14 students worked as interns during to Environment Month, an event held in a report submitted to the Board of mental management system. Under the summer or fall of 1998 in eight of in May every year in Québec. In 1998, Directors every six months. In 1998, its EMS, Hydro-Québec is developing the company’s administrative units. Québec’s Ministère de l’Environnement methods and procedures for accurately based on the theme L'arbre et l'envi- The work carried out during these issued four new infraction notices. defining training needs and setting up ronnement, the company organized a internships was beneficial: it allowed These notices mainly concerned: appropriate sessions. In 1998, the number of activities pertaining to trees the company not only to meet specific company’s training program focused and the environment for its employees environmental workforce needs, but • the lack of an authorization certificate on the areas most likely to improve its and the public, including: also to take advantage of the students’ for excavation work; environmental performance. In addition knowledge of new technologies in this • irregularities regarding application to environment segments incorporated • distribution of 2,000 copies of field.The interns, for their part, were of the Regulation respecting into the program on operating methods, able to acquire practical experience L'arbre, une matière précieuse, hazardous materials and, in particular, specific environmental sessions were that will facilitate their integration into une richesse aménageable et un storage standards for residual organized. Some 1,187 people attended the job market. élément vital, a brochure explain- hazardous materials; these sessions. Of this total, 407 took The internships lasted an average part in workshops dealing with ing the vital natural resource that of 15 weeks and covered such subjects as • an in-trench disposal site; management of residual hazardous trees represent; EMS implementation, impact assessment • an aviation-fuel spill. materials and spills. of hydroelectric developments, vegeta- • sponsorship of Opération reboi- tion control and environmental issues. Detailed information on the handling Training area 1996 1997 1998 sement 1998, a reforestation pro- of these infraction notices can be found gram organized by the Fondation Specific environmental training 1,121 766 809 Reference Centre in the sections on the various business québécoise en environnement, EMS – ISO 14001 training or awareness — 86 378 It is the responsibility of the Strategic and support units. in which 350,000 seedlings were Total number of participants 1,121 852 1,187 Planning and Environment division to see distributed free of charge to that all information of an environmental Number of Infraction Notices the public; nature is made available. Environment Corporate unit 1996 1997 1998 Since the start of the ISO 14001 employees can thus count on a team • distribution – through Provigo TransÉnergie 4 — — implementation program in 1997, of specialists who are well acquainted 464 employees have taken part in EMS supermarkets and the Fondation with the sources of information and Generation 1 — 1 training or awareness sessions. québécoise de la faune – of their value. Distribution — 1 1 During the year, the team designed 500,000 copies of Faites la cour International Affairs and Projects 2 1 — aux oiseaux.This brochure suggests a new intranet research tool providing access to a collection of printed and Procurement and Services 4 1 2 species of trees that are compatible electronic documents, including all Total 11 3 4 with distribution systems and that reports produced by Hydro-Québec attract birds. since the beginning of the 1970s.The public may obtain information on these reference documents at the following address: [email protected].

12 13 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Environmental Compliance

12 13 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Spills Issues During the ice storm of January 1998, a large number of spills occurred as a The issues presented in this section are result of breaks in numerous electrical of great importance to Hydro-Québec Number of Spills Legal Proceedings devices. Fortunately, the majority of on account of their scope and their impact (excluding 1998 ice storm) Two legal proceedings were the focus these pieces of equipment contained on the development of hydroelectric of attention in 1998. less than 55 litres of insulating oil. projects.They arise out of Canadian 500 Furthermore, the analyses carried out and international concerns. In the • The first was launched by the Coalition 400 showed that this oil had little or no PCB medium and long term, they could des citoyens et citoyennes du Val-Saint- contamination. More than 3,000 incidents even influence the company’s strategic 300 François and by 10 private citizens, occurred, mainly in the Montérégie and business positioning. against four defendants, including 200 region, and more than two-thirds of Hydro-Québec.The plaintiffs sought them required site cleanup and recovery 100 to have the work on the Hertel – Des Recognition of the Value work. In each of the districts concerned, Daniel-Johnson dam Number of spills Cantons line project stopped and of Hydropower 0 we reached agreements with the 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 asked that the Québec government regional offices of Québec’s Ministère Year comply with the normal processes Major dam projects have local impacts Canadian Hydropower Association de l'Environnement regarding the on ecosystems, biodiversity and commu- Source: Hydro-Québec. prescribed by various laws of public In 1998, Hydro-Québec proposed the information to be supplied to them and nities, which may give rise to challenges order, especially those respecting creation of the Canadian Hydropower the modes of intervention. Most of the all over the world and create difficulties environment and land use. Association in order to promote the cleanup operations began in January for new hydroelectric projects. advantages of hydropower to the public • The second resulted in the company’s and were completed by July 1998. Hydro-Québec continues to promote and governments and to ensure being convicted following two spills Owing to the exceptional nature the comparative advantages of equitable treatment of this energy of PCB-contaminated mineral oil in of the ice storm, we did not take into hydropower with respect to sustainable source by the authorities. the Saint-Maurice River, in January account spills that occurred during development and renewable energy, in 1990 and June 1995. Hydro-Québec this event, for comparison purposes order to control greenhouse gases and International Energy Agency – had to pay $85,000 to the federal with other years. better define acceptable hydroelectric Appendix III – Hydropower and government,which will pass it on to a While a number of other spills projects from the environmental and the Environment local environmental organization.The occurred, at nearly every type of facility, social standpoints.To that end, the amount was determined on the basis none was major.These various spills company is involved in various activities Within this agency, Hydro-Québec of factors identified in the case, such were not the subject of infraction notices, on a number of levels. is responsible for summarizing the as modifications and improvements with the exception of an aviation-fuel International Energy Agency’s research made to Shawinigan-3 generating spill at the La Grande-3 airport, for which World Commission on Dams on the environmental impacts of station between the time of the inci- recovery and decontamination operations Hydro-Québec provides financial support hydroelectricity.The summary includes dent and the date of the judgment. proceeded normally, in agreement with and expertise for this independent international recommendations These modifications, which will make the Ministère de l’Environnement. In commission formed by the World Bank concerning practices for ensuring the it possible to avoid any recurrence addition, in most cases the spills were and the International Union for the environmental and social acceptability of such incidents, along with those quickly contained or were followed Conservation of Nature.The Commission’s of hydroelectric projects. to be added between now and by appropriate remedial measures. role is to evaluate the efficiency of large the end of 1999, will complete the dams as development projects and additional refurbishing work deemed propose recommendations to improve to be a “total environmental gain”and decision making in future projects. estimated at a minimum of $1,731,000. Hydro-Québec thus ensures that its 25 years of experience in environmental management contributes to the Commission’s awareness of the intrinsic advantages of hydropower and the solutions developed and applied to minimize the impacts of large-scale hydroelectric projects.

14 15 Environmental Performance Report 1998

E7 Network of Expertise for In the fall of 1998, as part of the the Global Environment diversion projects designed to develop As a founding member, Hydro-Québec the hydroelectric potential of the plays an active part in the operations Betsiamites River, Hydro-Québec held Working Group of the International of this network.The most recent Salmon several meetings with Montagnais repre- Hydropower Association activities include: sentatives in order to propose different The International Hydropower Association The Atlantic salmon populations have management and development plans • project for implementing solar- (IHA) is a multidisciplinary, non-profit, been falling for several years. Changes in to preserve the salmon in the river. energy technologies in remote public organization. It was founded in environmental conditions in marine villages in Indonesia; 1995 to establish a forum for the exchange habitats, as well as offshore commercial Management of Greenhouse of views and knowledge on all aspects • project for promoting the advantages fishing, have been singled out as the Gas Emissions of hydroelectricity. By forming different of hydropower in Lithuania; principal factors responsible for the technical working committees and decline in stocks. Salmon is therefore an • coordination of the efforts of Since the adoption of the Kyoto protocol, organizing workshops, the association issue of major importance for the Southern African Power Pool, the Canadian government has wanted to wishes to make decision makers aware developers and managers of an organization established in 1995 formulate a national strategy for GHG of the role that hydroelectricity can play hydroelectric facilities. and comprising 12 electric utilities management. It has consequently estab- in terms of sustainable development. Some of Hydro-Québec’s hydro- in countries of southern Africa. lished 14 information and discussion Hydro-Québec has been a member of electric facilities are on salmon rivers. panels. Hydro-Québec is involved in the the group since 1998 and takes an active They include Mitis-1 and Mitis-2 activities of the four panels that are most International Association part in the operations of the IHA’s environ- generating stations on the Mitis River, likely to affect its operations in connection for Impact Assessment ment committee, especially the working along with Bersimis-1 and Bersimis-2 with the adoption of this strategy.The groups on social impacts, atmospheric Hydro-Québec is a member of the generating stations on the Betsiamites mandates of these panels cover: emissions and impact assessments. Board of Directors of this association. River. For Hydro-Québec, any new projects and operating activities must • definition of a system that would Hydro Strategy Team Committee of have direct positive effects on the local grant credits for voluntary GHG the Canadian Electricity Association environment. For example, to ensure the reduction initiatives; This committee has developed a strategy protection of the salmon, the company • proposal of ways of reducing intended to promote, to the Canadian has made the following commitments: emissions for the electricity sector; government, the importance of • continue to invest in research hydropower’s contribution to the supply • evaluation of means of setting programs; of energy, and the need to remove up a tradable permit system for certain obstacles to its development. • develop, test and carry out projects GHG emissions; to help maintain this resource and • proposal of ways of implementing fishing activities; flexible international mechanisms. • plan projects and adopt technologies and equipment that are the most In these discussions, Hydro-Québec efficient possible, not only to avoid stresses the advantages of developing any decrease in salmon populations, hydropower as one of the indispensable but also to increase them substantially; means for allowing Canada to reach the GHG emission reduction target set • ensure that the groups and organi- in Kyoto. zations concerned by the preservation of this resource are involved in the various stages of project design and operation, so that they can take part in defining the mitigative measures and monitoring the results.

16 17 Environmental Performance Report 1998

The groupe Production (Generation group) is responsible for generatingmission electricity at the lowest possible cost, according to the expected quality requirements.It must also use competitive means of generation in order to meet electricity demand while ensuring an optimum service life for, and development of, existing facilities. The Generation group manages its activities and installations rigorously, with due respect for the environment. Commitment of the Business Unit

By adopting a declaration of environmental principles, the Generation group is committed to managing its electricity generation activities and its facilities Estimated Atmospheric Emissions of Hydro- in a spirit of sustainable development Québec’s Thermal Generating Stations

and in harmony with the environment. NOx Emissions It recognizes the need to exercise strict

management of environmental matters, 1,000,000 4,500 0.045 to disseminate accurate, honest infor- Electricity 4,000 0.04 mation and to act in cooperation with 100,000 the interested parties. Prevention of 3,500 0.035 pollution and continuous improvement 10,000 3,000 0.03 of our environmental performance are Generation 2,500 0.025 part of its day-to-day concerns. 1,000 The Generation group also wishes 2,000 0.02 Preventing pollution at source and improving our envi- to make its employees, partners and 100 1,500 0.015 suppliers more accountable regarding ronmental performance are an integral part of our operating 1,000 0.01 the importance of preserving the objectives for the 52 hydroelectric and thermal generating 10 environment. 500 0.005

stations and the nuclear power plant under our responsibility. Total gross output (GWh) 1 Tonnes emitted 0 0 Tonnes / total GWh In 1998, these principles were reﬂected in our ongoing 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Impacts of the Ice Storm Year efforts to incorporate the environment into our activities and Year Total output Tonnes emitted projects from the planning stage on. The optimization of our During the ice storm crisis, no generating Thermal output Tonnes / total GWh generating facilities and the start-up of various projects and equipment was damaged. However, research programs also helped limit the environmental since the transmission lines connecting impacts of our installations. In addition, several agreements certain hydroelectric generating stations to the distribution system were out of and our close cooperation with local representatives enabled SO Emissions service, some thermal generating stations CO2 Emissions 2 us to better consider stakeholder concerns in the manage- had to run for longer than usual. For ment of our present and future installations. example, to meet demand,Tracy gener- 2,200,000 11 13,000 0.13 Since 1997, all these activities have been added to the ating station operated on an emergency 2,000,000 10 12,000 0.12 11,000 0.11 environmental management system currently being insti- basis for about a month, with four 1,800,000 9 10,000 0.10 generating units running. In addition, 1,600,000 8 tuted and scheduled to receive ISO 14001 registration in the 9,000 0.09 La Citière power plant generated year 2000. With this proactive approach, managers and their 1,400,000 7 8,000 0.08 47,620 MWh in 1998 compared with 1,200,000 6 7,000 0.07 employees are able to manage the company’s operations and 1,100 MWh in 1997.The impacts of 1,000,000 5 6,000 0.06 facilities on a daily basis rigorously and with due respect for the ice storm on the Generation group 800,000 4 5,000 0.05 the environment. consequently resulted in an increase 4,000 0.04 600,000 3 in CO2,SO2 and NOx emission levels. 3,000 0.03 400,000 2 2,000 0.02 200,000 1 1,000 0.01 Tonnes emitted Tonnes / total GWh Tonnes emitted 0 0 Tonnes / total GWh 0 0 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Year Year

Tonnes emitted Tonnes emitted Tonnes / total GWh Tonnes / total GWh

Ghislain Ouellet Executive Vice President Generation 19 Environmental Performance Report 1998

and in harmony with the environment. NOx Emissions It recognizes the need to exercise strict

Tonnes emitted Tonnes emitted Tonnes / total GWh Tonnes / total GWh

Ghislain Ouellet Executive Vice President Generation 19 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Significant Environmental Aspects Research and Context Activity Principal result or environmental benefit monitoring The inventory of significant environmental Harlequin duck Since 1990, the population in • Monitoring of migration of males. • Findings confirm that the population frequenting aspects of the Generation group’sgener- Eastern North America has been • DNA analysis. Northern Québec is distinct from that on the east classified as an endangered species. coast of the United States. ating stations allowed us to define the Objectives, Targets and Action Plans Environmental • The status of the species frequenting Northern Management environmental issues associated with Québec will likely be revised starting in the year 2000. its operations, products and services. In 1998, the Generation group set the American eel Species in decline for about • Monitoring of fishway built in 1997 • The fishway is very effective. The principal areas for which we have objective of gradually implementing Progress of the Environmental 15 years in Lake Champlain and at Chambly dam and installation of • Out of an estimated population of 17,209 eels, identified significant environmental an EMS in compliance with ISO 14001 Management System EMS Lake Ontario. Dams and generating an electronic eel counter. 57.4% apparently passed through the fishway. aspects are: by the year 2000.This objective is part stations may form obstacles • The margin of error associated with use of the of the business plans of its various to its migration. electronic counter proved to be less than 2%. The Generation group’s declaration of • management of residual hazardous departments.The goal of the action environmental principles was approved materials and environmental Lake sturgeon Monitoring of spawning grounds • Second year of reproduction • Population estimated at 6,500 breeders, which plan is to continue the introduction downstream from Rivière-des-Prairies monitoring. produced 130 million eggs in mid-May 1998. in 1998.The environmental aspects discharge, including: and application of the EMS. More than generating station. • Confirmation of suitable design of spawning have now been identified for all our - balance for quantities of oil and 85% of the activities included in the grounds. hydroelectric and thermal generating grease used and recovered; 1998 plan have been carried out, with Mercury Management of risks to the • Monitoring of fish mercury levels • Confirmation of 1985 forecasts stations and our nuclear power plant. - equipment producing greenhouse respect to manager training, management environment and human health. in Robert-Bourassa, La Grande 1 (see figures on page 22). The legal stipulations and other gases and containing ozone- review and environmental inventories. and La Grande 3 reservoirs. requirements specific to these facilities • Fish consumption guide for people • The guide sparked great interest by users and depleting substances; The only activity that is somewhat are currently being listed. At the same using the Robertson reservoir. explains how they may benefit from the nutritional behind schedule is the listing of legal time, environmental objectives, targets - drinking, waste and industrial water; value of fish while eliminating health risks. stipulations; this objective will be • Evaluation of health risks for anglers • The health risks for anglers are low. and action plans have been integrated - thermal discharge; reached in 1999. using the La Grande complex. • Traditional methods of evaluating consumption into the 1999 business plan. Finally, - atmospheric emissions, according overestimate levels of mercury exposure. all managers have been trained in to type of fuel; Estuary Measures for protecting banks in • Proposal for implementing new • The Manicouagan regional county municipality ISO 14001 requirements. Environmental Research - underground tanks. environment estuarine and marine environments. methods of protecting banks with and Hydro-Québec will be partners in setting up test and Monitoring riprap. facilities at sites on the Manicouagan peninsula. • management of bodies of water Method for comparing northern • Standardization of methods. • Quality control tool for collecting and processing and properties: The Generation group continued its estuaries. • Analytic model with user’s guide. physical data in estuarine environments. - management of water flows applied environmental research and Integrated The many different uses of bodies • National and international survey. • Eventual formulation of a reservoir management and levels; monitored the environmental effects management of water in a drainage basin may • Case studies (Taureau and plan to harmonize the different uses. of its reservoirs. according to be a source of conflict related Gouin reservoirs). - maintenance of access roads drainage basin to hydroelectric generation. • Calculation of fixed charges. and generating facilities; • Cartographic tools. - multipurpose use of properties. La Grande complex Monitoring of reduced-flow • Monitoring of water and fish • Fishing yields are higher than before diversion. rivers downstream from quality in the Eastmain and • Over all, the actual impacts observed are • management of the environment: diversion structures. Opinaca rivers. less than expected. - integration of the environment • Review of intermittent environmental into operations planning; monitoring for the past 20 years in the Caniapiscau and Koksoak rivers. - contingency plans in case of spills. Improvement of brook trout • Monitoring of effectiveness • The weirs are still in place. habitats in the Nécopastic and of remedial measures. • However, breeding grounds and shelters have Achazi rivers, in connection deteriorated owing to flooding and ice action. with the La Grande-1 project. • Monitoring of brook trout population. • The species makes little use of this environment. Gentilly-2 Environmental monitoring. • Study of causes of fish mortality • Search for a solution in cooperation with the generating in the area of the tailrace canal Ministère de l’Environnement du Québec. station during spring shutdowns in 1997 and 1998. Radiological monitoring. • Monitoring of radionuclides and 14C. • The level of liquid and atmospheric waste is so • Monitoring of atmospheric tritium in low that an indirect method had to be used to surface and seepage water. evaluate doses in members of the critical group. • Monitoring of critical group. • Annual dose of 5.9 mSv, or 0.12% of the allowable dose, which is 5,000 mSv, and 0.3% of the annual dose of background noise.

20 21 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Environmental Activities Environmental Compliance Changes in mercury levels in the flesh Evaluations of fish in reservoirs in the western sector In the Manicouagan region, the Ministère of the La Grande complex Measures in Natural and Human Environments de l’Environnement du Québec con- Environmental Compliance ducted an environmental compliance Lake whitefish evaluation of 10 generating stations. 0.6 Monitoring and Measuring Altogether, 42 anomalies were noted. Memorandum of Agreement on the Suroît Region The action plans established allowed 0.5 During 1998, the Generation group established various systems for monitoring 27 of them to be corrected in 1998, in In June 1998, Hydro-Québec signed the memorandum of 0.4 and measurement activities.The results less than eight months.These measures agreement on the Suroît region with the Beauharnois- 0.3 will be known only in 1999. were designed mainly to improve the Salaberry regional county municipality (MRC) and four Following the recommissioning of two drinking water supply systems, treatment 0.2 municipalities along the St. Lawrence River which are part generating units in continuous mode at of waste and oily water, and management Range under natural conditions 0.1 of the Vaudreuil-Soulanges MRC (Pointe-des-Cascades, Tracy power plant, Hydro-Québec will of residual hazardous materials.This resume operating its atmospheric emis- exercise also enabled employees and Mercury levels (mg/kg) 0 Les Cèdres, Coteau-du-Lac and Les Coteaux). This agree- Infraction Notices 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910111213141516171819 sion sampling station.The measurement managers to become aware of the ment, to run for 20 years, covers the implementation Age of reservoir station is already operational. As for the potential impacts of generation opera- In April 1998, the Ministère de l'Environ- of measures and improvements that will help enhance tions on the environment. nement du Québec issued an infraction Robert-Bourassa meteorological data station, it is being Hydro-Québec’s installations and properties in the Suroît In the region of the La Grande Rivière, notice as a result of the execution, without Opinaca set up and will be used for data analysis. five new compliance evaluations at the prior authorization, of riverbed excavation La Grande 3 region, in particular: At the Manicouagan complex, we began drawing up waste-sampling La Grande complex were completed, with a backhoe. Once the representa- • accessibility and management of bodies of water protocols for each type of water-oil along with three in the Abitibi- tives of the Ministère were on site, they (construction of a spawning ground at Beauharnois and separator.These protocols will be Témiscamingue area.The program, which ordered the work stopped and notified Northern pike earlier flooding of Pointe-des-Cascades basin for boating completed in 1999 and applied in began in 1996 and called for a total of the responsible authorities.The Ministère 4.5 and fishing); the year 2000. 13 evaluations, was thus concluded.The requires that employees likely to perform main findings concern the management this type of work be made aware of the 4.0 • use and enhancement of certain Hydro-Québec proper- of spills, residual hazardous materials, measures to be taken to minimize its 3.5 ties (e.g., bicycle paths on Hydro-Québec properties and and drinking and waste water.The action impacts. No significant environmental plans were followed for all of these find- impact was noted.Training was therefore 3.0 along the Beauharnois canal). ings, resulting in a decrease in instances provided, according to the requirements 2.5 of environmental non-compliance. stipulated in the infraction notice. Most of the measures will be implemented between now 2.0 and 2002 (bicycle paths, cleanup of a rock deposit at 1.5 Melocheville, raising of the dike in the town of Les Cèdres), 1.0 while others will be spread throughout the agreement Range under natural conditions 0.5 (cleanup of aquatic plants at Les Cèdres, maintenance of water quality at Saint-Timothée, etc.). Mercury levels (mg/kg) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 1718 19 This agreement also provides for a management Age of reservoir contract between Hydro-Québec and the Beauharnois- Robert-Bourassa Salaberry MRC. Under this contract, to run for 20 years, the Opinaca MRC now manages some of the company’s properties in its La Grande 3 territory. The revenues are shared by Hydro-Québec and the MRC, to help the latter finance its regional park. Monitoring mechanisms acceptable to both parties have been instituted.

La Grande-3 generating station

22 23 Environmental Performance Report 1998

La Grande-3 generating station

22 23 Environmental Performance Report 1998

New Projects

The Generation group is studying several major installations projects.The specialists Optimization of Generating Facilities are participating in joint studies with their Project Progress colleagues in the Installations Projects 1. Generating station project on the Project notice and feasibility study phase; Every year, Hydro-Québec devotes division.These studies mainly concern Toulnustouc River studies suspended. considerable efforts to integrating the Sainte-Marguerite-3 and Grand-Mère 2. Project for optimizing the Betsiamites River Project notice and feasibility study phase; environment into the maintenance and generating stations.The teams are also basin: diversion of the Boucher, Manouane, studies suspended. operation of its generating facilities. looking into optimization of the Portneuf and Sault aux Cochons rivers hydropower potential of the La Grande Some examples are listed hereafter. 3. Generating station (micro-turbines) Feasibility study. Tracy generating station and Churchill Falls complexes; these project on the Olomane River studies are now in the preliminary phase. The table shown opposite lists the 4. Mégiscane project Feasibility study; studies discontinued. Site Activity Environmental result or benefit projects and indicates their progress. 5. Tabaret project Project phase; studies discontinued. Tracy thermal • Modification of piping in fuel oil heaters • Elimination of risk of oil spills in the St. Lawrence River. generating station in two units and installation of new heaters in another unit. 1. Generating station project on 3. Generating station (micro-turbines) Chute-Bell generating • Construction of a boat ramp. • Improved access to facilities and multipurpose use the Toulnustouc River project on the Olomane River station (refurbishing) • Installation of fences for public safety. of Hydro-Québec properties. The Toulnustouc River empties into The Olomane River is on the Lower North • Recovery of equipment with heritage value • Preservation of architecture and appearance the Manicouagan River. Lac Sainte-Anne, Shore.The proposed hydroelectric gener- and preservation of building architecture. of local environment. 2 • Maintenance of ecological flow of 3 m3/s from • Protection of aquatic environment a reservoir with an area of 213 km ,is ating station would replace the output of April to November. downstream from the facility. located behind the dam, approximately La Romaine diesel generating station. 80 km from the confluence of the Reservoirs in • Application of a new reservoir management • Monitoring of effectiveness by consulting Toulnustouc and Manicouagan rivers. 4. Mégiscane Project Haute-Mauricie region method designed to minimize impacts on lake users; monitoring of breeding activities and The project involves enlarging this The Mégiscane River is a tributary of trout reproduction. scientific fishing yields. reservoir by about 20 km2 with a view the Bell River, itself a tributary of the Armagh dam in Lower • Study of various scenarios for making the • Choice of best scenario limiting impacts on to building a generating station.The Nottaway River, which empties into the St. Lawrence region structure safe (reinforcement or demolition). the environment. technical and environmental studies southern part of James Bay.The project • Chemical analysis of sediment in upstream reservoir. have been suspended.* entails partially diverting the inflows of La Grande-1 • Location and monitoring of areas where • Proposal of measures for keeping the remaining the upper portion of the Mégiscane into generating station floating peat bogs originate. peat bogs in their original channels (100 ha). 2. Project for optimizing the the Saint-Maurice drainage basin.The • Removal of peat bogs that have accumulated at the intake, Betsiamites River basin technical and environmental studies and spreading out on a granular-deposit site provided near have been discontinued.* the generating station. The project for optimizing the Betsiamites River basin covers the partial diversion of La Grande-3 • Removal of halon fire protection system. • Reduction in use of ozone-depleting substances four rivers.The Portneuf and Sault aux 5.Tabaret project generating station in generating facilities. Cochons rivers empty into the St. Lawrence Tabaret generating station would be La Grande-4 • Reduction in lubrication frequency, to 10 injections • Reduction of waste released into the environment. River.The waters from their upper basins located about 40 kilometres northwest generating station twice a week, and interruption when generating • Reduction of purchases and costs. would be diverted to the Pipmuacan of the town of Témiscaming, between units are shut down. reservoir in the Bersimis complex.The the two outlets of Lac Kipawa; this reservoir La Grande-3 and • Study to improve the efficiency of water-oil separators. • Reduction of waste released into the environment. Manouane River flows into the Péribonka, has an area of 284 km2 at its maximum La Grande-4 a tributary of Lac Saint-Jean. Part of level.The technical and environmental generating stations its waters would be diverted to the studies have been discontinued.* Dikes and dams at • Testing of five new formulations to control • Search for more effective products that are Pipmuacan reservoir. Finally, the Boucher the La Grande and vegetation. less damaging to the environment. River, which empties downstream from * These projects have been either discontinued or Manicouagan complexes • Monitoring of effectiveness. Bersimis-2 generating station, would suspended pending agreements between Hydro- be diverted to the Outardes-3 reservoir. Québec and the populations concerned. Manic-5, Outardes-3 and • Installation of systems for treating domestic sewage. • Reduction of waste released into the environment. Outardes-4 generating stations The technical and environmental studies have been suspended.* Manic-2 generating station • Installation of a skimmer in the water-oil separator. • Elimination of waste released into the environment. Témiscouata dam • Repair of fishway concrete. • Fishway improvements carried out at a suitable time to ensure that fish continue to migrate upstream toward their spawning grounds.

24 25 Environmental Performance Report 1998

New Projects

24 25 Environmental Performance Report 1998

The mission of the TransÉnergie division is to transmit electricity andmission market the transmission capacity in accordance with the requisite quality standards and in compliance with current regulations. TransÉnergie must also ensure the durability and optimum growth of our assets, from a perspective of sustainable development. It is also responsible for marketing our products and services in areas related to energy transmission. As well, it controls energy movements on the transmission system under its Impacts of the Ice Storm responsibility, at the best possible cost, while complying with The ice storm of January 1998 caused reliability and security requirements in effect. considerable, but local, damage to trans- Commitment of mission system infrastructures.The Environmental environmental impacts of this natural the Business Unit disaster are essentially linked to the Management major failures that affected the transmis- TransÉnergie’s 1998 actions and commit- Progress of the Environmental sion system and required line repairs or ments are in line with the strategic Management System EMS reconstruction. Moreover, since the orientations adopted by Hydro-Québec. outages chiefly affected transmission For example, the division took part in In view of the importance of the system circuits serving substations research and development projects environmental issues surrounding Electricity south of Montréal, it was rural agricultural with a view to acquiring new environ- the installation and maintenance of areas that were the hardest hit.The fact mental expertise. transmission facilities,TransÉnergie that the work was carried out in winter, In the implementation of its commu- continued the implementation of its on frozen ground, lessened the environ- nications strategy,TransÉnergie’s activities environmental management system Transmission mental impacts considerably, however. focused on the following points: which it began in 1997. During 1998, From the outset of these operations, two manuals were written, one on • participation in discussions with the TransÉnergie stated its desire to take the the EMS itself and the other on system To carry out our mission, we conducted a variety of farm sector, through Hydro-Québec’s company’s environmental obligations procedures.The environmental aspects environment-related activities in the areas of installations liaison committee and the Union des into account.To that end, it compiled concerning line and substation main- planning, operations and maintenance. producteurs agricoles (UPA); all the information deemed necessary tenance were identified. In addition, the for site restoration: property damage, The year 1998 was marked by an exceptional event • information provided to target publics work of the various implementation equipment and materials left on the that had a major impact on our business plan. The ice on transmission R&D projects related teams got under way. sites, ditches filled in to allow the opera- storm we experienced at the beginning of January com- to the environment and, more specifi- tion of equipment, possibly compacted cally, electric and magnetic fields; pelled us to meet a great many unexpected challenges, in soils, as well as poles left on the ground particular that of rebuilding the damaged portion of our • publication of brochures on herbicide on farmland and woodlands. More than transmission system. Our personnel mobilized quickly and use; 500 people were involved in recovering materials from damaged lines. found innovative solutions to restore power supply to our • implementation of an action plan In light of the lessons learned from customers, taking constant care to comply with our for establishing an environmental this storm, we plan to keep up and environmental concerns. management system in compliance improve our data collection program with ISO 14001. TransÉnergie’s contribution to Hydro-Québec’s in order to have even more complete strategic orientations will allow the company to resume its In addition,TransÉnergie made official information.The primary objective growth and achieve a satisfactory performance. Respect for its objective of having its environmental of this exercise is the integration of the environment, in cooperation with local communities, is management system registred as environmental concerns and measures the basic principle underlying our new communications ISO 14001-compliant by the year 2002. that are essential to Hydro-Québec’s emergency plan. strategy intended to increase awareness of the environmental qualities of Hydro-Québec’s power system. In this regard, we took part in discussions with the farm sector and informed the public about our research projects, notably those concerning electric and magnetic fields as well as herbicide use. We consider this strategy an investment in the future, which will enable Hydro-Québec to remain in the forefront of the environment field.

Jacques Régis President of TransÉnergie 27 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Significant Environmental Aspects Furthermore,TransÉnergie is develop- Electric and Magnetic Fields ing and evaluating noise measurement Exposure to electric and magnetic fields TransÉnergie undertook an inventory and forecasting tools. In 1998, it finished (EMFs) is an environmental issue linked of substation and overhead and under- its survey of noise-calculationsoftware to the construction of new power lines, ground line maintenance activities in 1998 Objectives,Targets programs and acquired a new sound- refurbishing of existing lines and system 1998. Less than 12% of these activities and Action Plans simulation tool complying with the operation in energy transfer mode. Public present significant environmental With a view to sustainable develop- latest ISO standards.TransÉnergie is also consultations on the installation of new aspects and impacts.The main areas are: ment,TransÉnergie has adopted an instituting appropriate noise-reduction high-voltage lines for the downtown action plan to implement an EMS that measures to control acoustic impacts. Montréal, Montérégie and Outaouais State of EMF Research Major significant aspects will gradually meet ISO 14001 require- It favors noise reduction at source through loops brought out the importance that • Management of hazardous materials ments. Continued implementation the purchase of appropriate equipment, interested parties attach to potential In 1998,Hydro-Québec’s research institute (IREQ) developed a and discharge into the environment of the EMS was therefore one of construction of sound barriers and EMF impacts.The company’s specialists cartographic software program on exposure to magnetic installation of sound-absorbingwalls • Management of contaminated soil TransÉnergie’s objectives. Deployment took an active part in these consultations. fields in residential neighborhoods. This innovation was of this system began in 1997 and in many substations. They presented current knowledge in • Management of equipment noise presented at the conferences of the Canadian section of the • Modification of land – soil, should be completed by 2002. In 1998, For all substation projects in inhabited the field and the specific exposure profiles Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). EMF- hydrography and topography TransÉnergie conducted a specialized areas,TransÉnergie conducts an acoustic for each high-voltage line, and answered • Presence of equipment evaluation of nine substations in its impact study and monitors the projects questions raised by the participants. related issues have impacts on an international scale. • Use of pesticides territory and completed its self-evaluation to ensure that its noise regulations The adoption of the company’s action The main organizations that examined this issue during the program for the compliance of all its are followed. plan, in June 1986, gave rise to research year are: Major significant impacts transmission substations. It emphasizes proactive noise manage- intended to better characterize EMF • Water contamination ment. In 1997 and 1998, it proposed a impacts on the environment and on • the International Conference on Large High Voltage • Soil contamination noise-evaluation program for 66 substa- the health of the local population and Electric Systems and the International Commission for Environmental Research • Sound nuisance tions in and around urban areas.This Hydro-Québec employees. A multidis- Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection, on the subject of and Monitoring program had two main objectives: • Deterioration or loss ciplinary team made up of engineering, exposure limits; of wildlife habitats medical and environmental experts is In the environmental area,TransÉnergie’s • establish acoustic protection • Disruption of normal activities responsible for constantly monitoring • the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Transmission Expertise and Technical perimeters around the facilities; in the right-of-way developments in this area. (NIEHS), regarding impacts on public health; Support department is responsible for • Contamination of wildlife • convey this information to the MRCs the consistency of the division’s environ- and vegetation so that they can integrate • the World Health Organization, with respect to research mental activities and the management • Slope erosion and instability TransÉnergie’s concerns into their orientations for reducing scientific uncertainty. of expertise and monitoring.The main • Conflicting uses local development plans and avoid research programs that took up problems resulting from the The company’s specialists are in contact with repre- TransÉnergie’s attention in 1998 concern construction of homes on land the following environmental aspects. where sound levels are too high. sentatives of these organizations in order to keep up to date on developments concerning this social issue. Noise Management To find new ways to reduce noise, International research has reached a pivotal stage today. Electrical substations are the main TransÉnergie is working with the Following the adoption of the Energy Act Policy by the U.S. source of sound nuisance, owing to Université de Sherbrooke’s acoustic government in 1992, the EMF research program ended in research group on a project for actively their number and their location in December 1998. With a total investment of US$50 million, inhabited areas.To limit their effects controlling transformer noise.This this program intensified the scientific effort to improve on the quality of the environment, $200,000, two-year project will conclude current knowledge. The relevance of whether to pursue the TransÉnergie applies noise standards to in 1999.The research findings could lead its installations. For example, the levels to the development of a new, innovative research will be evaluated in light of the U.S. Department of of noise produced by new substations technique for active noise control. Energy and NIEHS reports. in residential neighborhoods must not exceed 40 dBA at night, and 45 dBA during the day.

Substation with sound barrier

28 29 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Substation with sound barrier

28 29 Environmental Performance Report 1998

An environmental impact assessment Environmental Compliance is made prior to all vegetation control operations in order to identify sensitive Environmental Compliance features of the local environment (streams, Evaluation TransÉnergie applies various wildlife habitats, etc.).TransÉnergie assigns approaches to control vegetation. Its to each a protective perimeter, or zone choices are based on criteria pertaining within which special measures are applied. Self-evaluations of substations to the environment, effectiveness, safety, Lastly, for several years TransÉnergie 100% complete health and economics. One constant has been working closely with Québec’s emerges: it always takes into account the Ministère de l'Environnement to develop TransÉnergie completed the environ- surrounding environment and the use of tools for improving practices related to mental compliance evaluation of all the right-of-way. In short,TransÉnergie herbicide use (guide to sound practices, its substations in 1998.The facility favors the right approach, in the right herbicide management code, working manager is personally responsible for place and at the right time. committees, etc.). conducting this evaluation. It involves An environmental appraisal of these measuring the degree of TransÉnergie Herbicides and Vegetation Control approaches demonstrates that herbicides Research and Development facilities’ compliance with the laws and can be used without jeopardizing public In the ﬁeld of integrated vegetation regulations in effect in Québec, as well health and safety, while also protecting control, R&D in 1998 dealt mainly with as with Hydro-Québec’s requirements Integrated Vegetation Control the environment. Selective herbicide use the following aspects: concerning management of contaminants, To ensure the reliability of its system, leads, in the long term, to a reduction in noise, wildlife and vegetation, among TransÉnergie must control vegetation • technical and environmental the density of incompatible vegetation other elements. that is incompatible with the operation comparison of the different (trees) in rights-of-way. of its transmission lines and transformer herbicides usable in rights-of-way The medium-term objective of our substations. Rights-of-way alone cover and around substations; Herbicide application programs for vegetation control in more than 135,000 hectares of land. Nine substations subjected rights-of-way is to establish and maintain • validation of various approaches Like other Canadian and American to specialized evaluation low-growing plant species that are that minimize herbicide use; electric utilities,TransÉnergie favors compatible with system operation.This three approaches: • changes in vegetation in rights-of- In 1998,TransÉnergie carried out a integrated vegetation control concept way under different approaches; specialized evaluation of nine of its • mechanical intervention; has found widespread favor with Canadian substations. A team of internal auditors and American companies that manage • environmental role of waterside • selective application of herbicides; conducts these evaluations, which such corridors (oil and gas pipelines, protective strips; examine the facility’s environmental • management practices. electrical power lines, railways, etc.). • further development of Myco-Tech aspects as part of the program of brand biological herbicide. technical audits. In the course of this exercise, various environmental aspects,

Herbicide Use in Power Line Rights-of-Way including management of records, Du Tremblay substation, Longueuil hazardous materials and spills, were Environmental Activities 1997 1998 identified as calling for improvement. Area Mechanical Selective application Mechanical Selective application Each of the specialized evaluations Measures in Natural and cutting (ha) of herbicides (ha) cutting (ha) of herbicides (ha) was completed by an action plan specific Human Environments North 2,569 1,612 3,129 2,785 to the facility in question.This plan In 1998,TransÉnergie carried out the contains the problems noted, the South 2,086 — 2,727 — first phase of studies concerning recommended improvement measures, East 2,307 2,961 2,192 2,637 vegetation screens and biodiversity the name of the person in charge and in power line rights-of-way in northern a timetable. West 709 2,290 649 1,831 environments.The purpose of these Total per type studies is to evaluate biodiversity of treatment 7,671 6,863 8,697 7,253 in rights-of-way as a function of the surrounding environment. Proportion 53% 47% 55% 45% Total area treated 14,534 15,950

Source: Hydro-Québec

30 31 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Source: Hydro-Québec

30 31 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Hydro-Québec’s direction principale Distribution (Distribution division)mission is responsible for carrying out investment projects and maintenance plans with a view to optimizing the distribution system and improving service quality at the lowest possible cost and with due respect for the environment.The division is in charge of customer power supply projects and requests from third parties. The distribution system supplies more than 3.4 million residential, agricultural, general, institutional Impacts of the Ice Storm and industrial customers in 1,497 cities and towns in Québec. At the height of the ice storm in January The system covers more than 105,700 km, nearly 9% of it 1998, nearly 1.4 million customers – The Distribution division took underground, for assets totaling more than $8 billion. Commitment of 40% of all customers of the Distribution division – were without electricity in advantage of this exceptional Distribution is also responsible for operating the 24 off-grid the Business Unit 733 cities and towns in Québec. More opportunity for analysis to undertake thermal generating stations and Lac-Robertson hydroelectric than 3,400 km of distribution lines were studies on monitoring the behavior Declaration of Principles generating station. principles damaged.To restore power, 7,700 km of of vegetation after an ice storm and medium-voltage conductors, 1,500 km on emergency measures. The Distribution division put its commit- of low-voltage conductors, 16,250 poles ment into concrete form by adopting a and 4,767 transformers had to be declaration of environmental principles Electricity replaced.The system was completely in June 1998.The declaration sets out its restored by October 1998. Environmental environmental values and the measures The chief environmental consequences it plans to implement so as to improve Management of this event were spills of insulating oil its performance in the following areas: Distribution resulting from breaks in a large number Progress of the Environmental • sustainable development; of distribution transformers, the impact Management System EMS on vegetation, which caused many • strict management and continuous The Distribution division has made a commitment to interruptions in service, the recovery In 1998, the Distribution division set improvement of its environmental institute an environmental management system (EMS) that of materials left in the field and, finally, up implementation teams in all its performance; complies with the ISO 14001 model. This approach increases the restoration of sites after the storm. regions.This mobilization of personnel managers’ environmental accountability and obliges them to • environmental research; enabled it to define its declaration of environmental principles and to set integrate this aspect into day-to-day management. As a result • communications with its employees objectives and improvement targets and the public; of this initiative, its environmental expertise now enjoys for environmental performance. international recognition. The division can thus take better • relations with its partners The various regions also defined advantage of distribution-related marketing potential on and customers. the significant environmental impacts national and international markets. Considerable efforts must related to their activities, products be made to achieve this goal, and the division is counting on and services, and established means of operational control.To that end, all its employees to successfully meet the challenge. they drew up action plans that will be implemented during 1999.The adoption of a communications strategy will help ensure effective dissemination of the elements of the EMS to personnel, notably through newsletters circulated by the division’s operations units.

Roger Bérubé General Manager Distribution

33 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Roger Bérubé General Manager Distribution

33 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Management of Research Programs Environmental Objectives Other issues were the focus of research To improve its environmental performance, programs. the Distribution division incorporated the following environmental objectives into its Issue Focus of Research Principal Activities 1998 business plan: Restoration • Contaminated sites and soils • Application of the Québec Ministère de l’Environnement of contaminated sites policy on soil protection and rehabilitation of • implement an environmental contaminated sites. management system in compliance • Evaluation and classification of sites. Management of Significant with ISO 14001 by the year 2000; • Procedure for evaluating dangers and risks. Environmental Impacts • reduce property damage and • Evaluation of characterization and treatment technologies. the number of claims; Management • Wood preservatives • Pole location criteria. The main environmental issues related of contaminants • Evaluation of dangers and risks. to Distribution and emanating from the In the case of thermal generating • recover and reuse treated wood • Evaluation of mitigative measures to reduce lists of significant aspects concern: stations in off-grid systems, the issues poles; leaching and contamination. relate to: • environmental integration of the • increase the proportion of projects • Dismantling of lines, recovery, reuse and recycling of used poles. distribution system; • assessment of environmental risks undergoing an internal environmental associated with facilities; assessment (IEA) and evaluate the Environmental integration • Landscaping and land use • Integration of system into heritage areas. • management of contaminants; satisfaction of customers affected by of distribution system planning • Visual simulation. • protection of the environment in the • recovery, reuse and discarding these projects. • Land use planning and subdivision. event of contaminant spills in remote of system components; • Study of facilities design and new distribution techniques. areas; Management by Objectives and Environmental management • Management of vegetation • Research on more environmentally friendly • environmental management • restoration of contaminated sites; Performance Indicators of vegetation approaches to vegetation control. of vegetation; In 1998, some of these issues were • Structuring of plant growth. • dismantling of certain facilities; • impacts of work on customers’ expressed as performance targets • Restoration of plant cover. property. • management of residual materials. and objectives. • Management of clearing and pruning waste.

Issue Action plan Indicator 1998 target 1998 result Risk Analysis Comprehensive management • Implementation of an • Percentage of EMS compliance Not applicable 42% of the environment environmental management system with ISO 14001 benchmark. Risk assessment techniques facilitated in compliance with ISO 14001. decision making in environmental matters, especially for restoration Environmental integration of • Conducting of environmental • Percentage of projects undergoing an IEA. 90% 84% 1 of contaminated sites, environmental distribution system assessments for the projects. • Satisfaction of customers affected. • Rate of customer satisfaction. 80% 86% assessment and development of mitigative measures. Risk assessment 2 Recovery, reuse and discarding • Recovery and reuse of treated • Percentage of poles returned to storage 90% 46% provides a systematic operations of system components wood poles. yards compared with number of poles framework based on scientiﬁc principles removed from the system. that allow a better understanding and • Percentage of poles reused compared with 10% 11.5% number of poles returned to storage yards. management of various risks related to health and the environment. Impacts of operations on • Reduction in property damage. • Instances of property damage. 860 480 To accurately assess the risks asso- customers’ property • Reduction in claims. • Number of claims. 135 202 1 ciated with its activities, Hydro-Québec conducted two studies in 1998, one on 1. This performance below the target set is explained by the current restructuring, which delayed the progress of certain matters, especially those related to the action plans. 2. This new activity was in the implementation phase in 1998. Since data collection and activity monitoring were being developed,it was impossible to achieve the target in the ﬁrst year the ecotoxicological risk of a storage of implementation of this action plan. yard for treated poles and the other on contaminated sites.

Soil characterization in a storage yard for PCP-treated poles

34 35 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Soil characterization in a storage yard for PCP-treated poles

34 35 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Environmental Monitoring

In 1998, the Distribution division continued its environmental monitoring The Lessons of the Ice Storm activities for the following projects. Monitoring of Contamination Environmental Activities of Underground Structures Project Environmental monitoring activities Measures in the Natural Environment The ice storm of January 1998 allowed us to verify the The issue of monitoring cases of contamination of under- Lac-Robertson hydroelectric • Changes in water quality, fish populations Vegetation relevance of the mitigative measures proposed in a study ground structures is of particular concern to the urban generating station and mercury concentrations. As part of the extensive public awareness conducted in 1997. This study examines methods used for • Potential for survival by Salmonidae in region of the Island of Montréal, where the underground campaign on trees, Le bon arbre au bon trees in connection with emergency repairs, in particular the outlet channel in winter 1997-1998. system comprises some 20,000 structures.We have therefore endroit, which Hydro-Québec launched after freezing rain. • Inventory of waterfowl population in developed certain tools for listing and monitoring structures in 1986, the Environment unit published 1997-1998. The principal measures recommended concern the that have already been contaminated. a guide to ornamental trees and shrubs behavior of overhanging branches,which are the main cause Île aux Coudres • Restoration of site of buried in 1998.This publication, titled Répertoire A database containing information on the steps taken by of service interruptions on distribution lines.The findings and underwater crossing underwater cable. des arbres et arbustes ornementaux, firms specializing in cleanup enables us to reconstruct the Restoration of site of former • Monitoring of groundwater quality. presents an inventory of more than analyses concerned the relationship between power outages gas power plant on Verdun contamination history of a structure, record the operations 1,200 species and varieties found in and trees, suitable tree maintenance measures and man- Street, in Québec City 1 and the actions taken to determine the source and ensure Québec and is intended for all the agement considerations. Former Îles-de-la-Madeleine • Air quality measurement system: that the problem has been solved. In 1998, 35 new cases of company’s customers. Forecasts of freezing rain are the first line of defence power plant1 measurement of suspended particles in infiltration of contaminants were recorded on the Island of Numerous specialized studies were recommended by the study. It also suggests a number of the air from May 1997 to April 1998. also carried out in 1998.The subjects Montréal. The monitoring of these events depends on the other measures likely to reduce risks, such as the elimination • Restoration of groundwater table: covered concern management of clearing type of product found, the quantities and the information review after 95 months of operation. waste resulting from distribution-line of species highly sensitive to freezing rain and a review of the gathered in subsequent inspections. Since 1990, about 1,100 Regional operating • Energy recovery of pruning chips. maintenance, evaluation of measures treatment of branches overhanging primary conductors. activities • Monitoring of herbicide application cases of contamination have occurred in more than 830 taken in rights-of-way, and approaches On the basis of the study findings, it seems possible to and vegetation maintenance activities. structures. Cleanup costs totaled $1.5 million. The search for to apply to vegetation in case of considerably strengthen the distribution system’s resistance emergency repairs. Distribution system • Monitoring of mitigative measures the source of contamination requires the cooperation of to the impacts of extreme climatic phenomena. Following the ice storm, a number projects (IEA) recommended as part of the IEAs of various authorities in the municipalities and government of public awareness campaigns were 60 projects. departments concerned. conducted to inform the public of Hydro- In addition, some parts of the island, where industrial 1. See also the section on site restoration, on page 40. Québec’s approaches to management of concerns have been established for decades, present vegetation, as well as ways of avoiding serious histories of soil contamination. Operation of an incompatibility between vegetation and underground system in these conditions therefore requires public utility infrastructures. special attention. For example, in the area of the refineries in the east end of Montréal, buried cables and connections have to be made of materials that are resistant to petroleum products. The Environment team has therefore drawn up a detailed map of this area, in order to make a host of useful data available to workers and planners.

36 37 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Environmental Monitoring

36 37 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Energy Recovery of Used Oil from Thermal Generating Stations Overall customer satisfaction indicator: Quality of work and The energy recovery of used motor oil environmental integration of projects from Kuujjuarapik thermal generating Measures in the Human Environment Internal Environmental Assessments station continued in 1998. Some 10.0 ORIEL Program During 1998, the IEA process was 2,920 litres of used oil was recovered. 9.5 The goal of this initiative is to reclaim In 1998, Hydro-Québec made its standardized to adapt it to the ISO 9001 9.0 catalogue of ORIEL products available quality system being implemented by used motor oil from the generating 8.5 to the various municipalities in order the Distribution Projects department. station to meet the heating needs of to continue to offer them a selection The division also began applying an adjacent warehouse. 8.0 of distribution system components a new quality indicator focusing on 7.5

Soil Decontamination Objective

7.0 Before that are better integrated into the envi- customer satisfaction with distribution ronment. A few projects were carried projects.This indicator will be combined Research Findings Average In 1998, research on soil decontam- out in certain Québec municipalities, with the performance indicator used to Planning and engineering such as Québec City and Boucherville, determine the number of projects that ination led to the development of two Work which installed steel poles that are have undergone an IEA. highly promising products. Communications during execution of work Communications before work began more visually pleasing than traditional The purpose of the IEA is to system- • One study gave rise to the develop- wood poles. atically incorporate environmental ment of a method for rapid, reliable concerns into planning, construction, characterization of soils contaminated modernization and maintenance by insulating oil. Applicable both in operations on Hydro-Québec’s the ﬁeld and to diesel-contaminated distribution system. soils, it will permit a reduction in the time required to obtain laboratory Subdivision Guide Customer Satisfaction Indicator test results. Some 711 respondents completed a Indicator: Distribution projects that After In cooperation with the Union des municipalités du Québec questionnaire on customer satisfaction • A pilot project conducted at Îles-de- have undergone an IEA and Bell Canada, Hydro-Québec put together a guide titled with Distribution projects.The results are la-Madeleine thermal generating Lotissements et réseaux de distribution : guide des presented in the ﬁgure shown to the right. station allowed us to verify the 25,000 bonnes pratiques. The guide suggests practices fostering effectiveness of a treatment concept 20,000 more harmonious integration of distribution systems in developed in 1997 by the École Management of Contaminants 15,000 88% new residential subdivisions. It is intended for Bell Canada polytechnique de Montréal’s Industrial 96% and Hydro-Québec personnel in charge of distribution Chair in Site Bioremediation. A small 10,000 84% Management of Residual quantity (< 1 m3) of diesel-contami- 82% system design, for municipal managers and for firms 5,000 Hazardous Materials nated soil is placed in special container responsible for drawing up subdivision development plans. 61% To comply with the new regulations and treated with hot air released 0 Presented in the form of thematic data sheets, the guide 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 discusses the potential obstacles encountered by new published by Québec’s Ministère de by the power plant.The results are Year l'Environnement on the management of conclusive and indicate that the subdivisions and proposes simple, original procedures to Total number of projects approved hazardous materials, 39 residual hazardous process could be applied to our facilitate better integration of distribution systems into the Projects that have undergone an IEA environment. Application of these practices will lead to a material recovery sites were set up in 1998, thermal generating stations. intended for line workers, splicers and Avenue du Colisée, Québec City – looking north decrease in the number of poles and devices needed for other distribution employees. Personnel power supply and telecommunications service. will be trained, so that these sites can be used properly and effectively.

38 39 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Soil Decontamination Objective

38 39 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Site Restoration Work Restoration of Plant Cover Under various regulations, Hydro-Québec • Gas plant on Verdun Street is required to develop plant cover In 1998, Hydro-Québec completed restoration techniques that are adapted its monitoring program for groundwater to the different environments and can quality at this site.This commitment Environmental Compliance ensure adequate regrowth of vegetation. was part of the provisions of the autho- By way of example, a recent regulation rization certificate for the restoration Monitoring and Measurement stipulates that it is now mandatory to of the site, issued by Québec’s Ministère Monitoring activities in 1998 mainly restore certain areas with commercial de l'Environnement.The work is now concerned the archaeological aspects species and ensure their growth for a finished. Hydro-Québec will discuss of projects involving construction of period of eight years after completion the future use of the site with the city underground systems in Québec City. of construction. of Québec and the Ministère. In Montréal, the joint study committee, Certain regulations oblige Hydro- in which the Commission des services Québec to set restoration objectives • Thermal generating stations électriques de la ville de Montréal, the that are difficult to achieve with the usual techniques, since the sites affected Restoration work continued at Îles- city of Montréal and Hydro-Québec by its activities are generally not very de-la-Madeleine and L'Île-d'Entrée thermal participate, examined 27 projects, five favorable to the growth of species generating stations, on the Îles-de-la- of which were the subject of archaeo- termed commercial. Madeleine, as well as at Port-Menier, logical measures.These consisted of The company is therefore working on the Île d'Anticosti. studies of the projects’ potential and construction monitoring. to develop restoration techniques that foster commercial species. A number of experiments under way throughout the company’s territory focus mainly Decontamination Projects under Way at the End of 1998 on the use of poplar, pine and spruce Site and type of intervention Volume to Volume removed Volume removed % of total volume Cost to date Scheduled in combination with various silvicultural be treated and treated in 1998 and treated to date to be treated ($M) end treatments.The preliminary results point to adequate regrowth and sufficient L’Île-d’Entrée 9,900 m3 R: 1,100 m3 R: 9,900 m3 100% 3.5 1999 Soil decontamination T: 1,500 m3 T: 7,500 m3 76% maintenance of seedlings to comply with the regulations. Îles-de-la-Madeleine 56,500 m3 R: 13,000 m3 R: 56,500 m3 100% 10.8 1999 (Cap-aux-Meules) T: 16,000 m3 T: 48,000 m3 85% Infraction Notices Soil decontamination Following a visit to the electrical Îles-de-la-Madeleine 20,000 L 100 L recovered 10,800 L 54% 5.6 Ongoing equipment shop in Saint-Hyacinthe, (Cap-aux-Meules) of oil to be recovered recovered to date the Ministère de l'Environnement du Groundwater restoration Québec issued an infraction notice on Île d’Anticosti 8,700 m3 R: 1,600 m3 R: 6,300 m3 72% 1.3 2001 September 23, 1998.The representative (Port-Menier) T: 1,600 m3 T: 4,100 m3 47% of the Ministère had noted irregularities relating to application of the Regulation R = removed T = treated respecting hazardous materials.The Alder and spruce notice concerned a tank containing used mineral oil. By the end of October 1998, corrective action had been taken.

40 41 Environmental Performance Report 1998

The mission of the direction principale Projets d’équipement (Installationsmission Projects division) is to supply its customers with project management services for new or refurbished installations. It is also responsible for providing them with project management guidelines from a perspective of competitiveness and sustainable development. Projects under Way Reinforcement of thesystem Transmission System Environmental To ensure that these projects are The ice storm that struck Québec at implemented with due respect for the Management the beginning of January 1998 caused environment and local communities, power failures on an unprecedented Hydro-Québec conducted environ- Progress of the Environmental scale. Nearly half of Hydro-Québec’s mental impact studies in 1998.These Management System EMS customers, mainly in the Montérégie, studies allowed it choose line routes Outaouais and Montréal regions, were and substation locations with a view As of the end of 1998, Installations without electricity. to optimum integration of technical Projects had completed the first version Installations To avoid a recurrence of this situation, and economic criteria while also of the record of its activities covering Hydro-Québec has adopted a targeted respecting the environment.To that environmental aspects and impacts, approach of system reinforcement, after end, the company worked with the along with an inventory of environment- studying several options.The company principal stakeholders concerned by related legal cases. It also put together Projects consequently carried out the following these projects, in particular the Union a newsletter for its employees, three projects: des producteurs agricoles, the various issues of which were published and regional county municipalities, the munici- The exceptional events of 1998 enabled the division’s circulated during the year.The division • loop of the Montérégie high-voltage palities,the Ministère de l'Environnement employees to meet new challenges.Very quickly, we developed is further in charge of ensuring that system; du Québec, the Ministère de l'Agriculture, the EMS is implemented in line with new procedures for carrying out activities including high- • loop of the Outaouais high-voltage des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation du the ISO 9001 standard. Québec, the Commission de protection voltage line projects designed to increase the security of system and construction of an interconnection with the Ontario grid; du territoire agricole du Québec and Québec’s power supply. groups representing local interests. At In addition to the environmental studies stemming • loop of the downtown Montréal high- the conclusion of these studies, Hydro- from the ice storm, Installations Projects ensured that all voltage system. Québec applies standard mitigative environmental aspects of its projects and operations were measures to minimize the impacts of its evaluated and managed at all phases of implementation. It projects and proposes specific measures on the basis of project characteristics.In also began establishing work processes that facilitate the addition, the company conducts envi- effective hand-over of environmental commitments, from ronmental monitoring of the work to the draft design phase to construction. ensure compliance with these measures. Lastly, the division was involved in implementing the Hydro-Québec also periodically ISO 14001 environmental management system. publishes newsletters reporting on the progress of the work, construction methods used and environmental protection measures adopted, as well as the restoration of properties affected. This information is also accessible at Hydro-Québec’s Web site (www.hydroquebec.com). Finally, the Aqueduc – Atwater line Info-projet hot line was also started up to field requests for studies or complaints from interested parties.

Michel Clair Executive Vice President International Affairs and Projects 43 Environmental Performance Report 1998

The Montérégie Loop nearby homes.The same environmental 67¡ 30' I 67¡ 00' 66¡ 30' 66¡ 00' Sainte-Marguerite-3 Hydroelectric I R I i Lac v considerations as at Montérégie I i This loop project calls for the construction Gras è Generating Station I r I e I a substation were taken into account, I P u I é x of the 735-kV Des Cantons – Saint-Césaire k I a Lac n so as to manage, at source, the impacts I s – Hertel line, covering 145 km, and of Filling of the reservoir began in 1998. I Todd I I I I

of night-time lighting, noise and spills. R Montérégie substation. In 1998, Hydro- I Grand-Mère Hydroelectric By the end of the year, two-thirds of the i

I v

I i The commissioning of the Outaouais I Lac è Québec began building the Des Cantons I r Generating Station work at the site was completed, including I Isabel e I – Saint-Césaire section, which was to permanent substation and looping of the I Lac the dam. No infraction notices were issued I line to this substation, in 2001, will mark I aux Cèdres R I i be completed in February 1999. After Hydro-Québec submitted its draft-design during the year, as the work proceeded Lac v 52¡ 00' 52¡ 00' Booste iè the end of work on this loop project. r the Québec Superior Court issued an report to the Ministère de l'Environne- in compliance with the laws and regula- Petit Lac e aux Cèdres La Ronde injunction, however, the company halted ment du Québec in October 1998. tions in force. A number of mitigative R iv The Downtown Montréal Loop iè the work and postponed commissioning Improvements, some of them of an measures were implemented, including: re J e

R a I

This project involves replacing the current I

of the line. environmental nature, have been added. I iv

- I

I P I I I i 120-kV transmission lines on steel towers, • reforestation and restoration of è ierre

Hydro-Québec applied a number I r

They include the addition of public access e I

between Aqueduc substation and Atwater affected sites along the access road; I

of mitigative measures, including to the river and a canoe portage site. I I

substation, with a 7-km, 315-kV line on 3 I

the acquisition of a woodlot between Similarly, the management of 500,000 m • stocking of lakes à Toi and à Moi I I

tubular steel poles. Begun in 1998, this I

the right-of-way and a residential neigh- of excess excavated rock led to an with ﬁsh to increase the brook I

I work will be ﬁnished during 1999.The I

borhood, in order to create a permanent agreement with the local authorities. trout population; M I o n R

I t

entire loop project should be completed a iv I g i

visual screen. Measures were taken in A further environmental issue è M I n re

e • archaeological inventory campaign; I o

in the year 2000 with the construction B d I i the woodlot, heavily damaged by January’s e involves assigning a new use to the l s

51 I a i 51¡ 30' ¡ 30' l

n e a I of a 120-kV underground line running c

ice storm, to preserve the viability of present generating station building, • construction of the Maison de trans- I h Lac I e

3.6 km between Hadley and Atwater I Fouquet

the trees. which has recognized heritage value. A mission de la culture montagnaise. I

I I

The design of Montérégie substation substations, and the 315-kV connection committee of local representatives will I I Lac takes environmental considerations into of the existing Atwater – Viger line. I Lac Demers be formed to study various options. As Furthermore, Hydro-Québec ﬁnanced I Alexandre I I account in order to manage, at source, well, a study of the project’s cumulative six environmental enhancement projects I

I Lac S Boundary of

the impact of night-time lighting, noise Duvernay – Anjou Line effects was conducted, in order to meet and two regional development support I Houdan a I i Sainte-Marguerite

I n and spills.The commissioning, scheduled Canadian government requirements. projects, for a total investment of t drainage basin

I e I I - for 2001, would conclude work on the $4.4 million.The company also carried I In 1998, Hydro-Québec completed I

Montérégie loop. construction of this 315-kV line, which on its program for monitoring the salmon I

I R i

v population in the Moisie River. According i

includes a crossing of the Rivière des è I r

The Outaouais Loop e to the original plans, the hydroelectric I Prairies. Measuring 9 km in length, I O 51¡ 00' 51¡ 00' I u

This project involves construction of a development of Sainte-Marguerite-3 I a it was built entirely with tubular poles. p I

I t e

315-kV line covering 130 km between generating station called for partial I c In addition, the right-of-way was I

Grand-Brûlé substation, near Saint-Jovite, diversion of the waters of two tributaries I combined with that of the Ministère I Lac I Cacaoui I and Vignan substation, near Gatineau. des Transports du Québec, planned of the Moisie River, namely the Carheil I Sainte-Marguerite-3 I Lac à Toi Hydro-Québec is also negotiating with I dam for the extension of highway 25 — and aux Pékans rivers. As that would I Main Camp I Lac à Moi Ontario Hydro to build a 1,000-MW have meant a reduction in the ﬂow of I M

an advantage as far as urban planning I

a I Sainte-Marguerite-3 r g interconnection between the two I is concerned. the Moisie River, Hydro-Québec studied generating station u e

II r systems to reinforce its own grid in the possible impacts on the salmon, its (under construction) i

I t

I e

I Hydro-Québec the Outaouais region and to diversify I

habitat and ﬁshing.The studies found I I control substation

Québec’s power supply.The year 1998 that 98% of the ﬁsh swimming up the I

marked the start of construction of the Moisie River are salmon.The continu- I I

50¡ 30' I 50¡ 30' line linking the Québec and Ontario ation of salmon studies in this river will I grids and construction of Outaouais depend on the governments’ decision IIII substation.The substation is located on regarding the diversion of the tributaries. I I

I farm land and will be surrounded by a I

Grand-Mère generating station I

visual screen formed by a tree-covered I I

slope, to lessen the visual impact on I Sept-Îles

I Clarke

I Sainte-Marguerite-2 City

I Baie des

I Dam I generating station

Sept Îles Moisie I

I I I

I Sainte-Marguerite-1

I I I

I I

generatingI station

0 10 20 30 km I 138

I St. Lawrence River Port-CartierI I

67¡ 30' 67¡ 00' 66¡ 30' 66¡ 00' 50¡ 00' 50¡ 00'

44 45 Environmental Performance Report 1998

of night-time lighting, noise and spills. R Montérégie substation. In 1998, Hydro- I Grand-Mère Hydroelectric By the end of the year, two-thirds of the i

I v

R a I

This project involves replacing the current I

of the line. environmental nature, have been added. I iv

- I

I P I I I i 120-kV transmission lines on steel towers, • reforestation and restoration of è ierre

Hydro-Québec applied a number I r

They include the addition of public access e I

between Aqueduc substation and Atwater affected sites along the access road; I

of mitigative measures, including to the river and a canoe portage site. I I

substation, with a 7-km, 315-kV line on 3 I

the acquisition of a woodlot between Similarly, the management of 500,000 m • stocking of lakes à Toi and à Moi I I

tubular steel poles. Begun in 1998, this I

the right-of-way and a residential neigh- of excess excavated rock led to an with ﬁsh to increase the brook I

I work will be ﬁnished during 1999.The I

borhood, in order to create a permanent agreement with the local authorities. trout population; M I o n R

I t

entire loop project should be completed a iv I g i

visual screen. Measures were taken in A further environmental issue è M I n re

e • archaeological inventory campaign; I o

in the year 2000 with the construction B d I i the woodlot, heavily damaged by January’s e involves assigning a new use to the l s

51 I a i 51¡ 30' ¡ 30' l

n e a I of a 120-kV underground line running c

ice storm, to preserve the viability of present generating station building, • construction of the Maison de trans- I h Lac I e

3.6 km between Hadley and Atwater I Fouquet

the trees. which has recognized heritage value. A mission de la culture montagnaise. I

I I

I Lac S Boundary of

the impact of night-time lighting, noise Duvernay – Anjou Line effects was conducted, in order to meet and two regional development support I Houdan a I i Sainte-Marguerite

I n and spills.The commissioning, scheduled Canadian government requirements. projects, for a total investment of t drainage basin

I e I I - for 2001, would conclude work on the $4.4 million.The company also carried I In 1998, Hydro-Québec completed I

Montérégie loop. construction of this 315-kV line, which on its program for monitoring the salmon I

I R i

v population in the Moisie River. According i

includes a crossing of the Rivière des è I r

The Outaouais Loop e to the original plans, the hydroelectric I Prairies. Measuring 9 km in length, I O 51¡ 00' 51¡ 00' I u

This project involves construction of a development of Sainte-Marguerite-3 I a it was built entirely with tubular poles. p I

I t e

315-kV line covering 130 km between generating station called for partial I c In addition, the right-of-way was I

an advantage as far as urban planning I

a I Sainte-Marguerite-3 r g interconnection between the two I is concerned. the Moisie River, Hydro-Québec studied generating station u e

II r systems to reinforce its own grid in the possible impacts on the salmon, its (under construction) i

I t

I e

I Hydro-Québec the Outaouais region and to diversify I

habitat and ﬁshing.The studies found I I control substation

Québec’s power supply.The year 1998 that 98% of the ﬁsh swimming up the I

marked the start of construction of the Moisie River are salmon.The continu- I I

I farm land and will be surrounded by a I

Grand-Mère generating station I

visual screen formed by a tree-covered I I

slope, to lessen the visual impact on I Sept-Îles

I Clarke

I Sainte-Marguerite-2 City

I Baie des

I Dam I generating station

Sept Îles Moisie I

I I I

I Sainte-Marguerite-1

I I I

I I

generatingI station

0 10 20 30 km I 138

I St. Lawrence River Port-CartierI I

67¡ 30' 67¡ 00' 66¡ 30' 66¡ 00' 50¡ 00' 50¡ 00'

44 45 Environmental Performance Report 1998

The direction principale Approvisionnement et Services (Procurementmission and Services division) is responsible for supplying Hydro-Québec’s business units with the goods and services they need, while demonstrating the utmost respect for the environment.

Commitment of the Environmental Support Unit Management Declarationprinciples of Principles • installation of recovery and sorting Progress of the EnvironmentalEMS centres for materials removed from Management System At the end of 1998, the final version the system, with a view to their reuse of the text of the declaration of for repairs; As of December 31, 1998, the progress environmental principles was in the of the Procurement and Services EMS • recovery, for reuse, of 250,000 litres consultation stage. It was signed by the could be summed up as follows: Procurement General Manager on March 15, 1999. of insulating mineral oil; • A preliminary version of the Under the terms of the declaration, the • recovery of distribution transformers: declaration of principles, along with division undertakes to comply with legal 25% for reuse, and the rest for system procedures for the planning stipulations, to continually improve its recycling of metal components; section of the ISO 14001 standard, and Services environmental performance and to had been submitted for consultation. prevent any negative impacts of its • recovery of 15,000 treated wood poles: 30% for recycling into lumber, activities. In view of its mission and the • Procurement and Services in the and the rest for energy recovery; For more than four years, Procurement and Services products it offers, Procurement and Centre-South district had completed has made sure that the management of surplus and residual Services emphasizes sustainable devel- • recovery of thousands of kilometres its identification of significant materials complies with the 3RE principle: recovery, reuse, opment at all stages of the goods and of transmission and distribution environmental aspects, and recycling and energy recovery. This management practice services management cycle, especially conductors, nearly 4 million tonnes determined its objectives and contributes to achieving the company’s sustainable devel- by encouraging recovery, reuse, recycling of steel from dismantled towers, and management program. and energy recovery. 130,000 insulators sold to partner opment objectives and customers’ targets, while also • Procurement and Services for the organizations for recycling purposes; reducing costs. In 1998, the division continued all major Island of Montréal had begun 3RE programs, such as reclamation of insulating mineral Impacts of the Ice Storm • repair and reuse of more than 80,000 identifying its own specific significant environmental aspects. oils, reuse of distribution transformers, and recycling and different parts used for distribution The new procedures for recovery, reuse, lines; energy recovery of wood poles. These activities are recycling and energy recovery, along with generally carried out in partnership. the infrastructures established for these • donations of materials (poles, The ice storm episode allowed us to consolidate our activities, served the company very well personal computers, sound barriers, steel from towers and materials used 3RE practices. With the cooperation of the TransÉnergie not only during the ice storm, but also in housing personnel); and Distribution business units, we were able to recover during site cleanup operations in the spring of 1998.This expertise took millions of tonnes of metal, and refurbish and reuse tens of • characterization, decontamination concrete shape in the following activities: and restoration of 40 temporary thousands of recovered line accessories. storage sites for new, damaged or As regards optimization of hazardous materials scrap materials. management, a new recovery centre started up in Québec City. In addition, more than 70 sites allowing our workers to recover hazardous materials generated by our operations were set up in the various regions. Finally, the division wishes to consolidate its commitment to the environment by implementing its ISO 14001 environmental management system. Begun in two administrative units in 1998, this undertaking will continue until 2002 to obtain registration for all units.

Antonio Pinho General Manager Procurement and Services 47 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Significant Environmental Aspects Environmental Research and Monitoring The significant environmental aspects affecting Procurement and Services Various studies on different issues activities in the various units where imple- related to significant environmental 2. PCB elimination plan mentation has begun are the following: aspects were either begun or Established in 1996, this elimination completed.The following cases are plan required investments of about • Atmospheric emissions: greenhouse especially noteworthy. $24.3 million. It has made possible the gases, volatile organic compounds recycling or elimination of 7,150 tonnes and ozone-depleting substances. Issue concerned Activity carried out of contaminated materials, namely: • Production of waste: used oil, Contaminated soils in storage areas • Methodology for prioritizing contaminated sites. • recycling of 3,455 tonnes discarded poles, contaminated soil • Relationship between pentachlorophenol (PCP) and of metal parts; and materials. dioxins-furans, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), petroleum hydrocarbons and benzene hexachloride in • incineration of 3,310 tonnes • Discharge into sanitary and storm the soil of storage areas for PCP-treated poles. of residual materials. drainage systems. Bout-de-l’île hazardous-materials recovery centre Storage of treated wood poles • Monitoring of treated-wood storage facilities in Rimouski. • burial of 385 tonnes of slightly • Protection of the environment in • Environmental assessment of pole storage yard at contaminated soil in secure sites. case of spills, oil leaks from equipment Bout-de-l'Île site. and leaching from poles. Review of Action Plans at the End of 1998 Sludge from septic tanks • Disposal of sludge from septic tanks. In 1998, Hydro-Québec carried on • Use of natural resources: water use, its PCB elimination plan and achieved Management of oil-immersed • Evaluation of performance of field analysis kits 1. Consolidation of management energy efficiency and packing the following results: scrap equipment for measuring PCBs in insulating oils. infrastructure materials. Consolidation of the management • Management of odors and noise. infrastructure involved the following Type of PCB Remaining Quantity activities: 1997 1998 For each of the areas, the methods, 1998 Environmental Objectives Environmental Activities High level in service 0.5 tonne 0.5 tonne materials and subcontractors’ operating • establishment of more than 70 The 1998 objectives selected to comply criteria are also considered significant recovery sites in the working areas High level in storage 3,0 tonnes 2.7 tonnes with the orientations of the Business Plan Management of Residual environmental aspects. Action plans of 65% of Procurement and Services Low level in service 450,0 tonnes 400,0 tonnes in the spheres of the environment and Hazardous Materials buildings; designed to control or improve activities Low level in storage 190,0 tonnes 9.7 tonnes hazardous materials management cover: Over the years, Procurement and related to these environmental aspects • rationalization of transfer sites, Services has organized its activities in were defined and will be implemented • compliance with the new regulations following a 25% reduction in the N.B.: Equipment is considered low level if it contains between 50 and 10,000 ppm of PCBs. this area around four main approaches: starting in 1999. on hazardous materials through the number of these installations; adoption of new guidelines, training consolidation of the hazardous materials of personnel in residual hazardous management infrastructure, implemen- • start-up of operations at two 3. Elimination of residual hazardous materials recovery methods, and tation of a PCB elimination plan, hazardous-materials recovery centres materials in order to maximize recovery elimination of residual hazardous and construction of two new centres establishment of hazardous materials In 1998, under its residual hazardous materials in order to maximize recovery, in 1999; recovery sites and centres; materials elimination plan, the division and application of the 3RE principle. • continued implementation of an • start-up of operations at a new in- recovered and eliminated the following environmental management system trench disposal site in a remote area, products: in compliance with ISO 14001; and feasibility study for a future site. Material Quantity • completion of the PCB elimination plan. (tonnes) Liquids: Acids, antifreeze, lubricants, fixatives, 390.1 halogenated solvents, etc. Solids: Absorbent substances, sludge, rags, 282.1 filters, grease, contaminated porous materials, paint, dry cells, silica, fuller’s earth, nickel-cadmium batteries, etc.

48 49 Environmental Performance Report 1998

4. 3RE program Energy Efficiency in Building Environmental Compliance Infraction Notices The division carried on its 3RE Management La Vérendrye substation – in-trench program in 1998.This sustainable Under the provincial program for energy Soil Decontamination disposal site development initiative has led to the efficiency in administrative buildings, we As part of our regular operations, On November 12, 1998, the Ministère de recovery of the following products, recorded a reduction of 21.4% (more than characterization or restoration measures l’Environnement du Québec issued an which otherwise would have been 70,000 MWh) in net energy consumption were applied at 10 sites. In all, this infraction notice regarding the in-trench treated as waste. in 1998 compared with 1991, the refer- represents volumes of about 22,000 m3 disposal site at this substation. On ence year. Altogether, 102 administrative 1 of soil. January 13, 1999, the Ministère accepted, Product Quantity reused Quantity recycled Quantity used for buildings, spread throughout Hydro- energy recovery During the ice storm, 50 storage areas, in writing, the remedial measures Québec’s territory and representing a located at 40 different sites — 60% of submitted on December 15 by the Wood poles2 208 t 5,534 t 1,384 t 2 total area of 721,000 m , were monitored which were properties belonging to third company.The work is to be completed Insulating mineral oils 3,062,883 L 300,204 L to evaluate this performance. parties — were used and subsequently by June 30, 1999. Distribution transformers 4,010 units characterized, decontaminated and, in some cases, restored. About 1,600 m3 of La Grande-3 airport – 20,000-litre Metal 20,850 t soil was excavated, treated or buried. fuel spill Electrical equipment 2,508 t On April 15, 1998, Hydro-Québec received Petroleum Product Tanks Binders 7,000 units an infraction notice concerning an Application of the regulations respect- Paper and cardboard 97 t aviation-fuel spill at the La Grande-3 ing petroleum products and hazardous airport, located within the territory of the Various containers 6 t materials requires removing or replacing municipality of James Bay. Food waste 25 t certain underground tanks. In 1998, 31 The company conveyed to the of them were the subject of activities to Lead batteries 116 t Ministère de l’Environnement du comply with the regulations. Québec a document summarizing the Light fuel 25,745 L stages of the cleanup effort along with Waste Water and Drinking Water Used oils 252,412 L certain test results.The monitoring of A number of facilities managed by Antifreeze 3,600 L the contamination of groundwater Procurement and Services are equipped currently under way will enable us to Non-halogenated solvents 21,875 L with autonomous drinking water supply ensure that the measures required will Vehicle filters 19 t or waste water treatment systems.The be applied to the authorities’ division supplied technical expertise Mercury and sodium lamps 1 t satisfaction as promptly as possible. concerning drinking water quality in This case is not yet closed, since the Contaminated containers 40 t certain wells, and for septic facilities in final report has not been submitted and Fluorescent tubes 23 t current operation. Studies on three new the treatment of the contaminated soil drinking water wells at La Grande-4 must be covered by an agreement. Contaminated (oily) water3 145,255 L were conducted with a view to autho- rizing their use. 1. A printer-cartridge recycling program is also in effect, but the results were not available at the time of writing this report. 2. In 1998, the proportion of recycled quantities is estimated at 80%. Only the first phase of chipping was carried out with a view to energy recovery. 3. Contaminated water is treated, and reclaimed oils are used for energy recovery.

Head office

50 51 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Head office

50 51 Hydro-Québec at the Heart of the Québec Community

Environmental Enhancement

In 1998, Hydro-Québec continued its environmental enhancement program, which also covers support for regional development and Aboriginal communities.The funding applies at the time of construction of new generating or energy transmission facilities.

Summary of Environmental Enhancement Initiatives and Funding

Type of initiative Number Hydro-Québec Additional Total cost of initiatives funding funding (thousands of $) (thousands of $) (thousands of $) Accessibility to natural sites 1 45 0 45 Improvement of drinking water quality 1 1,500 3,546 5,046 Park landscaping 6 432.6 179.1 611.7 Creation of green spaces 3 340 12.9 352.9 Environmental knowledge and awareness 2 80 0 80 Landscaping of public buildings and infrastructures 4 165.8 40 205.8 Recovery and recycling of resources used 2 759.5 2,322.3 3,081.8 Restoration of a natural resource 2 147 0 147 Heritage restoration and enhancement 9 1,711.4 396.3 2,107.7 Stabilization of banks 2 185.3 3.2 188.5 Regional development 4 2,399.2 5 2,404.2 Community facilities 1 200 0 200 Linear recreational facilities 2 626.4 25 651.4 Total in 1998 39 8,592.2 6,529.8 15,122 Total since 1985 745 62,857.4 43,166.7 106,024.1

Source: Hydro-Québec. N.B.: These totals do not include amounts devoted to Aboriginal communities.

On the occasion of the construction of Bécancour gas-turbine generating station, the Abenaki community of Wölinak received enhancement funding of $300,000. With part of this funding, it developed a site as well as a culture interpretation centre.

52 53 Hydro-Québec at the Heart of the Québec Community

Environmental Enhancement

Summary of Environmental Enhancement Initiatives and Funding

Source: Hydro-Québec. N.B.: These totals do not include amounts devoted to Aboriginal communities.

52 53 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Overview of Hydro-Québec’s Regional Activities in 1998 Administrative region Average Expenditure Number of jobs Examples of partnership and social commitment Local Agreements of Québec workforce in ($M) supported the region (person-years) and Partnerships (01) Bas-Saint-Laurent 470 26.0 65 • Université du Québec à Rimouski • Atlantic salmon interpretation centre In its construction and operation activities, • Théâtre de Trois-Pistoles La Grande Social Commitment Hydro-Québec favors partnership agree- • Agreement with the municipality (02) Saguenay – 890 33.4 131 • Université du Québec à Chicoutimi ments with the populations concerned Lac-Saint-Jean • Saint-Félicien zoological society In addition to the spin-offs arising from of James Bay and James Bay Tourism in order to reduce environmental • Institut de recherche et d'études sur les populations new construction, Hydro-Québec plays to finance a survey of visitors using impacts and define the most appropriate (03) Québec 1,341 168.6 853 • Opéra de Québec a part in regional development in many the territory, as part of the program mitigative or compensation measures. • Place de la Gare – Québec City other ways. For example, it acts as a to monitor access to northern regions. • Université Laval It reached the following agreements partner in local social and cultural initia- This agreement allows a better under- • Québec winter carnival in 1998. tives and it obtains various goods and standing of the nature of impacts (04) Mauricie 1,117 158.0 952 • Institut national de la recherche scientifique – Culture et Société • Art vocal de Trois-Rivières services from local suppliers. In 1998, Manicouagan arising from access, improvement of • Orchestre symphonique de Trois-Rivières Hydro-Québec spent over $3 billion in forecasting and mitigative methods, • Renewable agreement, negotiated in • Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie this way and consequently supported and optimization of costs and measures 1998 with the Association des proprié- (05) Estrie 113 17.0 77 • Les événements populaires de l'Estrie more than 8,600 jobs at supplier and taken regarding operating activities. taires de chalets du camp 5, for the • Légendes fantastiques partner organizations. • Orford Arts Centre maintenance of a fishway for land- • Creation of the Hydro-Québec – (06) Montréal 7,894 1,969.8 3,319 • Six university chairs locked salmon on the Loup-Marin Community of Chisasibi working • Three universities River, a tributary of the Outardes-2 group with a mandate to solve certain • Four hospitals reservoir. problems related to operation of • L’Opéra de Montréal facilities in the La Grande complex. • Centre d'entreprise et d'innovation de Montréal • Five-year agreement with the For example, the evaluation of the • Orchestre symphonique de Montréal and Orchestre métropolitain Corporation de gestion de la pêche concrete structure and replacement (07) Outaouais 518 10.4 40 • Chambre de commerce et de l'industrie de l'Outaouais sportive de la rivière Mitis, covering • Bicentennial of the city of Hull of pumps at the filtration plant the installation, during the downstream helped solve problems at the com- (08) Abitibi-Témiscamingue 608 21.0 130 • Conseil de la culture Abitibi-Témiscamingue migration of smolts, of catch systems • Festival du cinéma international de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue munity’s drinking water intake. An in the headrace canals of Mitis-1 and • Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue emergency evacuation plan was also Mitis-2 generating stations along with (09) Côte-Nord 1,114 49.1 326 • Vieux quai en fête de Sept-Îles drawn up in case of failure of the a detour system in the headrace canal • Tadoussac song festival hydroelectric facilities. Finally, an • Salon plein air et commercial de Forestville of Mitis-1 generating station. agreement provides for the construc- (10) Nord-du-Québec 472 42.4 26 • Chisasibi Skating Club Ice Show tion of two boat-landing sites. • Radisson scout movement Beauharnois-Gatineau (11) Gaspésie– 214 4.9 27 • Les productions du Festival de la Parenté • In connection with the refurbishing Des Cascades Îles-de-la-Madeleine of Chute-Bell generating station, an • Second agreement, to run for two agreement with the association of (12) Chaudière-Appalaches 444 87.6 478 • Beauce Grand Prix of cycling years, with the Ministère de la Faune • Chaudière-Appalaches tourist association waterside landowners on the Rouge et des Parcs du Québec in connection River for the implementation of (13) Laval 341 99.5 501 • Institut Armand-Frappier with the action plan for the protection • Centre de bénévolat de Laval mitigative measures (for example, of lake trout in reservoirs in the • Laval chamber of commerce maintenance of a minimum daily and Haute-Mauricie region.This agreement (14) Lanaudière 243 28.8 109 • Centre culturel de Joliette seasonal flow to preserve the falls), concerns monitoring of the effective- • Corporation de développement économique de Berthierville a waterside park and a boat ramp. ness of proposed measures, and (15) Laurentides 983 50.3 193 • Mont-Tremblant music festival • Parc de la rivière des Mille Îles studies and tests on walleye spawning (16) Montérégie 2,894 249.8 1,123 • Fondation des Jeunesses musicales du Canada downstream from the Kempt and • Celebrations for 250th anniversary of Saint-Hyacinthe Manouane dams. • Conseil de la culture et des communications de la Montérégie (17) Centre-du-Québec 921 57.5 285 • Théâtre Parminou • Bois-Francs chamber of commerce Workforce not attached 339 to any particular region Total 20,916 3,074.1 8,635

Source: Hydro-Québec, Proﬁl régional des activités d’Hydro-Québec 1998, 2nd quarter 1999.

54 55 Environmental Performance Report 1998

Source: Hydro-Québec, Proﬁl régional des activités d’Hydro-Québec 1998, 2nd quarter 1999.

54 55 Hydro-Québec on the International Scene

India (State of Gujarat) Formulation of a plan for developing electricity generation and transmission in this state of 40 million inhabitants. International Projects Continuing until 2012, this plan is to Our Expertise beyond propose suitable generating methods In 1998, Hydro-Québec’s specialized and the most appropriate sites for Our Borders environment personnel put their technical the facilities. International Commission expertise to use by taking part in a on Large Dams number of international projects in Consortia for Ilisu Hydro-Québec has been a member of close cooperation with Hydro-Québec In November 1997, the Consortia for Ilisu, the Commission since 1968, and partic- International (HQI). of which HQI is a member, was authorized ipates in the activities of the technical to conduct an impact study for the Ilisu Argentina (Mendoza) committees (more than 25) intended hydroelectric project in Turkey.This to improve technical, scientific and Environmental audit of Energía de 1,200-MW project involves developing environmental aspects at all stages Mendoza Sociedad del Estado and the Tigris River about 60 km upstream of design and operation of dams and privatization of the electricity distribution from the border with Iraq and Syria.The related structures. company Empresa Distribuidora de reservoir area would be approximately Electricidad de Mendoza (EDEMSA), 2 300 km . Senghor University, Alexandria, Egypt with a view to acquiring EDEMSA. The Hydro-Québec team carried out In 1998, Hydro-Québec organized an project aspects dealing with archaeology environmental management training Argentina and Bolivia (Bermejo and and heritage, populations, health, regional seminar bringing together represen- Grande Tarija Rivers) development and population relocation, tatives of 11 French-speaking countries biodiversity, landscape and preservation. Expertise on environmental impacts of Africa.This seminar examined (review of sites and specialized studies) environmental assessments for of the development of three hydro- Other Projects of the E7 Network generating stations, follow-up and Our vision: electric sites on the Bermejo and of Environmental Expertise monitoring, preventive and remedial Grande Tarija rivers. environmental measures, and • Start of a project providing support partnership agreements between to become a world leader in energy Colombia (Barranquilla) for the Latin American Energy public and private organizations. by developing its expertise for the benefit of its customers, Environmental audit of the Corporación Organization (OLADE) in South employees and shareholder, and by working with partners Electrica de la Costa Atlantica (CORELCA), America, where a team will draw up carried out for a project for acquiring a guide on ways to make thermal in business ventures. CORELCA’s thermal generating facilities. generating stations comply with modern environmental standards and Panama sound energy-efficiency practices. Environmental audit of four hydroelectric • Seminar on environmental assess- generating stations and one thermal ments for line projects held at Mexico’s generating station belonging to the Comisión Federal de Electricidad. Instituto de Recursos Hidráulicos y • Technical support on refurbishing Our values: Electrificación, for the purpose of acquiring these facilities. thermal and diesel power plants, for Customer Satisfaction authorities in Yemen. A “Business First” Approach • Preparation of a guide to sound demand-side management practices, Respect for Employees eventually to be circulated in a Quality Improvement number of countries. Respect for the Environment in Cooperation with Local Communities Safeguarding the Future

57 Hydro-Québec on the International Scene

57 Conclusion

As we have noted often in this report, a key event of 1998 was the exceptionally severe ice storm that struck Québec this past January.In view of the increasingly frequent and violent blows of nature, Hydro-Québec has decided to consolidate its transmission and distribution system. The restoration of its system, along with the numerous environmental and social impacts of this event, have prompted the company to review its emergency plans as well as many of its quality standards. In addition, Hydro-Québec has met with resistance and protests from various groups throughout implementation of the program for reinforcing its transmission system. In its strategic planning, Hydro-Québec plans for completing the development of Québec’s hydropower potential.While the Out of a concern for complying with regulations, improving construction of large dams entails environmental and social its environmental performance and preventing pollution, impacts, it nonetheless remains that these impacts are local Hydro-Québec has been committed, since 1997, to a process in scope, unlike those associated with electricity generation of establishingan environmental management system in using fossil-fuel-ﬁred plants, which involve the production of compliance with ISO 14001.The implementation efforts are greenhouse gases and global warming. From this perspective, progressing at a highly satisfactory rate. As of fall 1999, one Hydro-Québec is convinced that hydropower is the most of the company’s administrative units shouldbe undergoing reliable and sustainable energy source for helping achieve the certiﬁcation audit. Hydro-Québec is convinced that the greenhouse gas reduction targets that Canada promised implementation of this management system and increasing to meet as part of the Kyoto protocol. In carrying out its new its managers’ accountability will allow it to achieve the level hydroelectric projects, the company has undertaken to ensure of compliance and excellence which it has targeted.This is that they are acceptable from an environmental standpoint an objective which any organization in the forefront of and are favorably received by the local communities. technology and environment and with an international vision must certainly attain.

Roger Lanoue General Manager Strategic Planning and Environment

59 Conclusion

Roger Lanoue General Manager Strategic Planning and Environment

59 Environmental Performance Report 1998 Publications, Conference Papers and Posters

Publications Conference Papers and Posters

CRÊTE, M., DOUCET, G. J.“Persistent Suppression in Dwarf Birch After Release from Heavy Summer Browsing BARTELL, S., LEFEBVRE, G., KAMINSKI, G. CASM 2.0: An Aquatic Ecosystem Decision Support System for Assessing by Caribou,” Arctic and Alpine Research, 1998, No. 30 (2), pp. 126-132. Ecological Risks in Québec Lakes, Reservoirs, and Rivers, National Conference on Decision Making, Knoxville, Tennessee, May 3-6, 1998. DESGRANGES, J. L., RODRIGUE, J.,TARDIF,B., LAPERLE, M.“Mercury Accumulation and Biomagniﬁcation in Ospreys (Pandion Haliaetus) in James Bay and Hudson Bay Regions of Québec,” Archives of Environmental DOMINGUE, J., GAUTHIER, F. Integrated Vegetation Management in Hydro-Québec, ESMO – 8th International Contamination and Toxicology, 1998, No. 35, pp. 330-341. Conference on Transmission and Distribution, Construction, Operation and Live Line Maintenance, Orlando, 1998. DOYON, J.-F., SCHETAGNE, R.,VERDON, R. ”Different Mercury Bioaccumulation Rates Between Sympatric Populations of Dwarf and Normal Lake Whiteﬁsh (Coregonus Clupeaformis) in the La Grande Complex ÉGRÉ, D., GAGNON, L. Electricity Sector Restructuring in Canada: Six Neglected Environmental Dimensions of a Watershed, James Bay, Québec,” Biogeochemistry, 1998, No. 40, pp. 203-216. Level Playing Field,World Energy Council, September 13-18, 1998.

DOYON, J.-F., BERNATCHEZ, L., GENDRON, M.,VERDON, R., FORTIN, R. ”Comparison of Normal and Dwarf GRIMARD, E.,TREMBLAY,A., HILLAIRE-MARCEL, C., LUCOTTE, M. Influence de la structure des réseaux trophiques Populations of Lake Whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) with Reference to Hydroelectric Reservoirs in sur l’accumulation du méthylmercure par les organismes d’un réservoir hydroélectrique et de lacs naturels du Northern Quebec,” Archive for Hydrobiology Special Issues, Advances in Limnology, 1998, No. 50, pp. 97-108. Moyen-Nord québécois, 17th Annual Conference of the Canadian Society of Limnology (CSL), Queen's University, Kingston, January 1998. ÉGRÉ, D., GAGNON, L. ”Six Neglected Environmental Dimensions of a Level Playing Field in the Energy Sector,”21st Annual Conference of International Association for Energy Economics (IAEE), Proceedings,Vol. 2, GRIMARD, E.,TREMBLAY,A., HILLAIRE-MARCEL, C., LUCOTTE, M. Influence of the Food Chain Structure on the May 1998, pp. 511-520. Accumulation of Mercury in Fish from Reservoirs: The Use of Stable Isotopes, Mercury Hydro Utility Workshop, Vancouver, November 1998. GAGNON, L., BÉLANGER, C. ”Un premier pas vers une évaluation rigoureuse de l’énergie éolienne,” Liaison Énergie Francophonie, 1998, No. 40, pp. 12-17. KAMINSKI, G., LEFEBVRE, G. Validation of a Fugacity-Based SoilFug Model: Case of Pesticide Application under Hydro-Québec Power Transmission Lines,Water Quality International Conference 1998,Vancouver, 1998. GAGNON, L., BÉLANGER, C. ”Windpower: More Renewable than Hydropower?,” Hydro Review, 1998,Vol. XVII, No. 4, pp. 78-86. LETOURNEAU, H. Landscape Study Method for Siting Transmission Lines and Substations, 1998 EEI (Edison Electric Institute) Natural Resources/Biologist National Workshop. SENÉCAL, P., ÉGRÉ, D. ”Les impacts du complexe hydroélectrique La Grande sur les communautés autochtones,” Recherches amérindiennes du Québec, 1998, No. 28, pp. 89-103. LORANGER, S., SCHETAGNE, R., HOUDE, L. Fish Intake and Methylmercury Exposure of Recreational and Native Freshwater Anglers in the Upper Saint-Maurice Region (Québec, Canada), 25th annual conference on aquatic TREMBLAY, A., LUCOTTE, M., SCHETAGNE, R. ”Total Mercury and Methylmercury Accumulation in Zooplankton toxicology, Québec City, October 18-21, 1998. of Hydroelectric Reservoirs in Northern Québec (Canada),” The Science of the Total Environment, No. 213, pp. 307-315. SCHETAGNE, R., FOURNIER, J.-J.,VERDON, R.,TREMBLAY,A., DOYON, J.-F. Export of Mercury Downstream from Reservoirs, Mercury in Eastern Canada & the Northeast States, Fredericton, September 1998. TREMBLAY,A., CLOUTIER, L., LUCOTTE, M. ”Total Mercury and Methylmercury Fluxes via Emerging Insects in Recently Flooded Hydroelectric Reservoirs and a Natural Lake,” The Science of the Total Environment, 1998, SENÉCAL, P., GOLDSMITH, B. Consultation sur les principes d'évaluation d'impact élaborés par l'Association No. 219, pp. 209-221. internationale pour l'évaluation d'impact (IAIA), 3rd international conference of French-speaking specialists in impact assessment, IAIA, Montréal, May 1998. TREMBLAY,G., LEGENDRE, P.,DOYON, J.-F.,VERDON, R., SCHETAGNE, R. ”The Use of Polynomial Regression Analysis with Indicator Variables for Interpretation of Mercury in Fish Data,”Biogeochemistry, No. 40, pp. 189-201. TREMBLAY,A., MARTINEU, P., GARCEAU, S. Effect of Intense Fishing on the Accumulation of Mercury by Fish, 1998 Mercury Workshop,Vancouver, November 1998. VALLÉE, A., DOUCET, G. J. ”Environmental Implications of International Connections – The New Arena,” Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Power Engineering Review, August 1998, TURGEON, A., MARUVADA, P.S., GOULET, D. Application of Geographical Information System (GIS) for the pp. 13-16. Evaluation of Human Exposure to Magnetic Fields in the Vicinity of Power Lines, IEEE Canadian Conference on Electrical and Computer Engineering, 1998.

VARFALVY, L. Hydro-Québec R&D Program on GHG Emission Studies, Phase II (1998-2000). Mercury & GHG/Hydroelectric Utility Workshop, Session 1: Studies of GHG Emissions from Reservoirs, New Westminster, November 1998.

VERDON, R. Upstream Fishways for Eels, 128th Meeting of the American Fisheries Society, Hartford, Connecticut, August 25,1998.

60 61 Environmental Performance Report 1998 Publications, Conference Papers and Posters

Publications Conference Papers and Posters

VERDON, R. Upstream Fishways for Eels, 128th Meeting of the American Fisheries Society, Hartford, Connecticut, August 25,1998.

60 61 Acronyms, Abbreviations and Symbols Deﬁnitions

3REs recovery, reuse, recycling and energy recovery atmospheric tritium Water vapor containing tritium (H3), a stable isotope of hydrogen. ACECA Hydro-Québec’s Advisory Committee on the Environment and Community Affairs Canadian Electricity Canadian association made up of 28 electric utilities (or 95% of installed capacity in CEA Canadian Electricity Association Association (CEA) Canada), 25 major manufacturers of electrical equipment and several hundred other companies and stakeholders involved directly or indirectly in the sphere of electricity. CH4 methane energy conversion efficiency Energy efficiency of the different types of electricity generation equipment, calculated CO2 carbon dioxide on the basis of the energy source used as input (e.g., gas, coal, biomass, nuclear energy). ECR CEA’s Environmental Commitment and Responsibility Program environmental management A component of a company’s overall management system which includes the EMF electric and magnetic ﬁelds system (EMS) organizational structure, planning activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures, EMS environmental management system processes and resources for developing, setting up, carrying out, reviewing and maintaining the environment policy. GHG greenhouse gas herbicide A chemical agent that destroys plants. IEA internal environmental assessment A selective herbicide is designed to destroy certain plants in order to encourage others IHA International Hydropower Association to grow. IREQ Hydro-Québec’s research institute in-trench disposal site Disposal site in the form of a trench excavated in wooded surroundings and meant to ISO International Organization for Standardization hold household waste. MRC regional county municipality infraction notice Notice issued by a government department (federal or provincial) following observation of non-compliance with a law or regulation. NOX nitric oxide NSERC Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada internal environmental Assessment designed to determine whether a project is likely to alter the quality of the assessment (IEA) environment and, consequently, to prescribe appropriate mitigative measures. ORIEL Local Environment-Oriented Network Options This assessment is carried out even if the project in question is not the subject of a request PAH polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon for authorization under the Environment Quality Act. PCB polychlorinated biphenyl isotope One of two or more forms of a chemical element with the same atomic number, but with PCP pentachlorophenol different atomic masses. R&D research and development mercury A heavy metal occurring naturally in the environment which, in soils and oceans, is found

SF6 sulphur hexaﬂuoride mainly in inorganic form, invisible to the naked eye and not readily assimilable by organisms.

SO2 sulphur dioxide Following the ﬂooding of land caused by reservoir construction, a portion of the mercury in organic soils and vegetation becomes subject to methylation.This is consequently not UQÀM Université du Québec à Montréal a new source of mercury added by the reservoir itself, but rather a transformation of inorganic mercury already present in the land environment that is ﬂooded. methylation Microbial activity that transforms mercury into methylmercury, a toxic compound that accumulates throughout the food chain. off-grid power system Regional electricity generation, transmission and distribution system in northeastern Québec which is not connected to Hydro-Québec’s province-wide system. polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) Askarel in the family of chlorinated hydrocarbons contained in certain electric insulators and comprising more than 200 compounds. A property of askarels is that they do not release any combustible or explosive gases when an electric arc passes through them. radionuclide An isotope whose forms are radioactive. residual hazardous material Any residual material that is solid, semi-liquid at 20oC, liquid or gaseous, held in a transportable container, and that is combustible, corrosive, leachable, radioactive, reactive or toxic. The categories of waste listed in Schedule 1 of Québec’s Regulation respecting hazardous materials are also considered residual hazardous materials. stable isotope An isotope whose forms are stable.

62 63 Acronyms, Abbreviations and Symbols Deﬁnitions

SF6 sulphur hexaﬂuoride mainly in inorganic form, invisible to the naked eye and not readily assimilable by organisms.

62 63 For information: Denis Sirois Environmental Performance Advisor Direction Environnement Tel.: (514) 289-2211, ext. 4914 Fax: (514) 289-4977 E-mail: [email protected]

Julie Sbeghen Environmental Performance Advisor Direction Environnement Tel.: (514) 289-2211, ext. 5356 Fax: (514) 289-4977 E-mail: [email protected]

Michel Bourbonnière Senior Advisor – Environmental Performance Direction Environnement Tel.: (514) 289-2211, ext. 4933 Fax: (514) 289-4977 E-mail: [email protected] Question.Anglais 1.0 18/08/99 12:09 Page 1

Evaluation Questionnaire

To better meet your expectations and improve the quality 6. Please rate the quantity of information of our annual Environmental Performance Report, we in the following sections: need your feedback. Please help us by completing this Too Enough Not much enough brief questionnaire and returning it to us as soon as pos- The Environment at Hydro-Québec sible.Your comments will be read with great interest. Electricity Generation Energy Transmission Electricity Distribution Installations Projects 1. Is the report clear and easy Procurement and Services to understand? Hydro-Québec at the Heart Very of the Québec Community Fairly Hydro-Québec on the Not very International Scene Not at all Conclusion Publications, Conference 2. Do you find the information Papers and Posters in the report relevant? Acronyms, Abbreviations and Symbols Very Definitions Fairly Not very 7. Do you find that the report contains Not at all too much, enough or not enough of the following types of information: 3. Have you read the following Text sections of the report? Tables Yes No Charts The Environment at Hydro-Québec Electricity Generation 8. Please indicate your place of residence: Energy Transmission Québec Electricity Distribution Other province of Canada Installations Projects United States Procurement and Services Europe Hydro-Québec at the Heart Asia of the Québec Community Other Hydro-Québec on the International Scene Conclusion 9. Please indicate your area of activity: Publications, Conference Papers and Posters Finance Acronyms, Abbreviations and Symbols Government Definitions Economic or community interest group Association 4. Do you use this report in your work? Energy 5. Were you able to find the information Private company in other sector you needed in the report? Student or teacher Environmental advocacy group What other information would you have liked the report to provide? 10. How would you rate the report over all? Excellent Very good Average Poor

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