Complexe Manic-Outardes

Ever since 1958 work has been in progress to harness the hydro-electric potential of the Manicouagan and Outardes rivers, which flow parallel to one another from the north-east Laurentians.

Over this period two Hydro-Québec Co. generating plants known as Manic 5 and Manic 2 have come into operation.

Manic 5, this ultra modern power generating plant, started producing electricity in 1990. With a capacity of 1064 megawatts it is one of the biggest of its kind anywhere in the world. The 70 m (230 ft) dam powering Hydro-Québec's Manic 2 generating station is situated on the lower reaches of the Rivière Manicouagan about 20 km (12 mi.) north of Baie-Comeau. Tours available.

Visitors to Hydro-Québec's Center d'Interprétation can learn anything and everything about power generation. Bus tours are arranged from mid-Jun. to the beginning of Sept.