Hydro-Quebec, Montreal

Hydro-Québec, a public utility, is responsible for overseeing the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in Quebec. Additionally, it engages in power exports to parts of the Northeast United States.

Established in 1944 by the Government of Quebec through the expropriation of private companies, Hydro-Québec embarked on extensive investments in hydroelectric ventures such as the James Bay Project. Presently, the company operates 63 hydroelectric power stations with a combined output capacity of 37,370 megawatts. Notably, Hydro-Québec supplies 10 percent of New England's power needs by exporting surplus energy beyond the province.

Québec boasts over 40 percent of Canada's water resources, and as the fourth largest hydropower producer globally, Hydro-Québec takes advantage of this abundance. The company's logo, created by the Montreal-based design agency Gagnon/Valkus in 1960, features a stylized "Q" formed by a circle and a lightning bolt.

Situated in Montreal, the Hydro-Québec Building stands at a height of 110 meters (360 feet) with 27 floors. Completed in 1962, it serves as both the headquarters for Hydro-Québec and the Montreal offices of the Premier of Quebec. Architect Gaston Gagnier designed this structure.

René-Lévesque Boulevard, named after former premier René Lévesque, is where the building is located. Lévesque played a significant role in the nationalization of Quebec's hydroelectric companies in 1963 while serving as Minister of Hydroelectric Resources and Public Works in the government of Jean Lesage. A bust of Lévesque was unveiled in front of the building on August 24, 2001.