Robert-Bourassa Generating Station

Useful Information

Location:	Complexe Pierre-Radisson, 66 Av. des Groseilliers, Radisson, QC J0Y 2X0. (53.7934364, -77.6150210)
Open:	Mid-JUN to AUG Thu, Sat 8. SEP to MAY subject to guide availability. Online booking mandatory. At least 48 h in advance. [2025]
Fee:	free. [2025]
Classification:	Underground Power Plant
Light:	Incandescent
Dimension:
Guided tours:	D=4 h.
Photography:
Accessibility:
Bibliography:
Address:	Robert-Bourassa Generating Station, Complexe Pierre-Radisson, 66 Av. des Groseilliers, Radisson, QC J0Y 2X0, Tel: +1-800-291-8486. E-mail:
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then. Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

1971	the government of Robert Bourassa undertakes the hydroelectric development of Northern Quebec.
1974	James Bay Project started by James Bay Energy (SDBJ) for Hydro-Québec.

Description

The Robert-Bourassa Generating Station is the largest underground power station on earth with 16 generating units generating 5616 MW. The cavern of the power plant is 483 m long and 22 m wide and is located 137 m below the ground. It produces almost 20% of Quebec’s electricity. The whole system, one of the largest hydroelectric systems in the world, which has an installed generating capacity of 15.244 GW, has cost more than USD 20 billion. It produces enough energy for a country like Belgium.

The site is named after Robert Bourassa, who served as the 22nd premier of Quebec from 1970 to 1976 and initiated the James Bay hydroelectric project in 1971. Its original name was La Grande‑2, which is still used sometimes. The La Grande River in northwestern Quebec was dammed by the state-owned utility Hydro-Québec, neighbouring rivers were diverted into the La Grande watershed. The La Grande Complex has eight power stations.