Apuiat Wind Farm Reaches Commercial Operation - Marking a New Energy Era in Quebec

Executive Summary

• Apuiat Wind Farm L.P., a 50‑50 partnership between the Innu communities and Boralex Inc., has entered commercial operation, delivering 200 MW of renewable electricity.
• The facility comprises 34 Vestas V162 turbines (6 MW each), the most powerful wind turbines ever commissioned in Quebec, and is covered by a 30‑year power purchase agreement with Hydro‑Québec.
• The project delivers significant economic benefits to Indigenous partners and local communities, including $1 M annual royalties, $19 M in contracts to Indigenous businesses, and long‑term employment for 11 workers.

Key Details

• Capacity & Equipment: 200 MW total capacity; 34 Vestas V162 turbines at 6 MW each.
• Ownership Structure: 50 % owned by Innu communities, 50 % owned by Boralex Inc.
• Power Purchase Agreement: Electricity sold to Hydro‑Québec under a 30‑year contract.
• Economic Benefits to Indigenous Partners:
• 50 % share of net earnings over the next 30 years.
• Annual royalties of $1 M split equally between Uashat mak Mani-utenam and the municipality of Port‑Cartier.
• $19 M awarded in goods and services contracts to Indigenous businesses.
• Employment Impact: Over 300 workers mobilized during construction; 11 long‑term operational jobs created locally.
• Community & Training Initiatives: First wind maintenance training program for Indigenous communities developed with Mitshapeu Training Centre, Groupe Collegia, and Vestas.
• Energy Production Impact: Sufficient electricity to power approximately 150,000 people annually (≈40,000 homes).
• Inauguration Plans: Official inauguration scheduled for spring 2026.

Notable Quotes

• “The word ‘Apuiat’, which means ‘oar’ in the Innu language, symbolizes collective effort… towards a sustainable future that brings own‑source revenues for our entire Nation.” – Martin Dufour, Chief of Energy Matters, Innu Nation
• “Commissioning is therefore not the end of a project's development, but the beginning of a great story.” – Marc Genest, President, Apuiat Wind Farm L.P.
• “Its commissioning represents much more than a milestone in the execution of Boralex’s strategic plan… it’s a tangible example of shared value creation.” – Patrick Decostre, President & CEO, Boralex

All forward‑looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties as described in the release.