Hydro-Québec generates, transmits and distributes electricity. Its sole shareholder is the Québec government. It uses mainly renewable generating options, in particular large hydro, and supports the development of other technologies - such as wind energy, biomass and small hydro - through purchases from independent power producers. It also conducts R&D in energy-related fields, including energy efficiency.
The company has four divisions:
Hydro-Québec Production generates power for the Québec market and sells power on wholesale markets. It is also active in arbitrage and purchase/resale transactions.
Hydro-Québec TransÉnergie operates the most extensive transmission system in North America for the benefit of customers inside and outside Québec.
Hydro-Québec Distribution provides Quebecers with a reliable supply of electricity. To meet needs beyond the annual heritage pool, which Hydro-Québec Production is obligated to supply at a fixed price, it mainly uses a tendering process. It also encourages its customers to make efficient use of electricity.
Hydro-Québec Équipement et services partagés and Société d’énergie de la Baie James (SEBJ), a subsidiary of Hydro-Québec, design, build and refurbish generation and transmission facilities, mainly for Hydro-Québec Production and Hydro-Québec TransÉnergie.
H.Q. Energy Services (U.S.) Inc., a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of Hydro-Québec, engages in energy marketing and business development activities in the United States.