Wind energy development in the Nutinamu-Chauvin area

Saguenay-Lac‑Saint‑Jean

The MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay, Essipit Innu First Nation and Hydro-Québec are currently studying the wind resource potential of the Nutinamu-Chauvin area in Saguenay-Lac‑Saint‑Jean. Straddling the MRC and the traditional lands (Nitassinan) of the Essipit Innu First Nation, the area represents a new wind power capacity of between 500 and 1,000 MW.

Area studied with

Nutinamu-Chauvin: a wind of change

The energy transition requires increased renewable energy generation. The development of wind power in the Nutinamu-Chauvin area, a prospect made possible by the partnership, could play a key role in combating climate change.

As shareholders, the partners will receive independent income that they can invest in the community.
The significant contribution of renewable energy represented by the project will help decarbonize Québec.
The new facilities are expected to generate major local and regional economic benefits.

Wind power potential of 500 to 1,000 MW

Located in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, in the eastern part of the unorganized territory of Mont-Valin, the Nutinamu-Chauvin area spans approximately 300 km2 and is distinguished by the quality and scale of its wind potential. Ultimately, various phases of the proposed wind farm are expected to be developed there.

Efforts are currently underway to characterize the area through measures that include installing equipment to collect data on the quality of the wind resource. Information meetings are also being set up with local communities. The development will be subject to a comprehensive public consultation process aimed at ensuring social acceptability and optimally integrating the wind farm into its host environment.

Wind farm development stages

1
Identification of the study area
2
Project development
3
Government approvals
4
Construction
5
Operation and maintenance

Language of the land

The term nutinamu means “exposed to the wind” in Innu-aimun, highlighting the area’s wind potential. The name Chauvin refers to Pierre de Chauvin de Tonnetuit, who established a fur trading post in Tadoussac in 1600.

Environment

All project partners are attuned to the importance of preserving the area’s biodiversity and fully recognize its significant recreational and tourism value. Their aim is therefore to ensure the least possible impact on the host environment by grounding the design process in respect for the environment and harmonious coexistence with land users. To these ends, environmental impact studies will be conducted, with a special focus on wetlands and aquatic environments, species with special conservation status, land use, archaeological potential and the landscape.

Working together

In January 2024, Hydro-Québec, the MRC du Fjord-du-Saguenay and the Innu Essipit First Nation announced their intent to jointly develop wind power in the Nutinamu-Chauvin area-a project that will yield major regional economic benefits.

Area map

Public consultations will be held throughout all phases of wind power development in the Nutinamu-Chauvin area.

Map of the wind power study area

Wind measurement towers

To analyze the wind resource in different sectors of the study area, Hydro-Québec installed five wind measurement towers during the summer and fall of 2025. Clearing work for five additional measurement towers is scheduled to begin during the week of October 20, 2025, with the installation of these towers planned for 2026. Note that the installation of a measurement tower does not mean that a wind turbine will necessarily be installed at the exact same location.