World Power Plants

Centrale du Rapide-Blanc204 MW Hydroelectric

HydroRenewableVerified: Feb 2026

Centrale du Rapide-Blanc is recognized as the 165th largest power generation facility in Canada, contributing 204 MW to the national grid. While it may represent a modest 0.11% of Canada’s total electricity capacity of 193,190 MW, this hydroelectric plant plays a significant role within its regional energy landscape. Commissioned in 1934 and operated by Hydro-Québec, the facility employs advanced hydro technology to harness the power of flowing water, thereby generating sustainable electricity. Positioned amidst a cluster of nearby hydro plants, including Trenche (302 MW), La Tuque (294 MW), Beaumont (270 MW), and Centrale Beaumont (270 MW), Centrale du Rapide-Blanc benefits from the collaborative operation of these facilities, contributing to a robust hydroelectric network in the region. This interconnected system enhances grid reliability and allows for more efficient energy distribution across Quebec and beyond. Hydroelectric power is the dominant fuel type in Canada, and with 612 hydro plants contributing to the national capacity, Centrale du Rapide-Blanc holds a vital position in this energy mix. The plant's long-standing operation and strategic location affirm its importance in not only meeting local energy demands but also supporting Canada’s commitment to renewable energy. As the country pushes forward with its clean energy initiatives, the continued operation of Centrale du Rapide-Blanc exemplifies the potential for hydroelectric power to contribute to a sustainable energy future, while also highlighting the need for ongoing investment in infrastructure and technology to maintain efficiency and environmental stewardship.

Capacity
204 MW
Commissioning Year
1934

92 years old

Owner
Hydro-Québec
Location
47.7963°, -72.9734°

Canada, North America

Context & rankings
  • 165. largest of 1,334 plants in Canada
  • #7,324 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #1,452 of 8,493 Hydroelectric plants worldwide
  • 0.11% of the installed capacity of Canada
Age & fleet comparison

92 years in operation

Hydroelectric fleet average: 42.1 years

Operator portfolio

Hydro-Québec operates 174 plants totalling 59,537 MW

Regional density

8 plants within 100 km, 1,494 MW combined

Nearest plant: Trenche (8.6 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 47.796283, -72.973354
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Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Centrale du Rapide-Blanc is a hydro power plant producing approximately 715 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~24 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Hydro
Energy Source
Renewable
Country
Canada
Continent
North America
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

CanadaEnergy Profile

1,334
Total Plants
193.2 GW
Total Capacity
HydroGasNuclearWind
Top Fuels

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