The community of Kitcisakik, located less than 100 kilometers south of Val-d’Or, has achieved a significant milestone. After years of relying on diesel generators and wood fires, it is now almost fully connected to the Hydro-Québec network. This connection is part of the Animiki Ickote project, a long-awaited improvement that residents have anticipated for half a century. The project represents a new era for this Anicinape community.
Key Details of the Hydro-Québec Connection
At a heartfelt ceremony, Catherine Anichinapéo, a council elder, expressed her joy, saying, “For the first time in years, I hear my heart instead of a generator.” The project involved the installation of approximately 2,000 Hydro-Québec poles spaced 40 meters apart, stretching across 70 kilometers from the Louvicourt substation. This infrastructure now serves 140 residential and institutional buildings in the village located within La Vérendrye Park.
Community Leaders’ Reactions
Chief Edouard Brazeau emphasized the importance of this transition. He indicated that modern amenities bring new life opportunities to a community that had gone without electricity for so long. “Modernity is finally at our doorstep,” he noted during the celebrations.
Hydro-Québec’s top officials also attended the event. CEO Claudine Bouchard remarked on the historical significance of connecting the last unconnected community in Quebec. She highlighted that the project was not just about electrification, but a transformative societal initiative.
Investment and Project Financials
The total cost for the Animiki Ickote project amounted to nearly $32 million. This included the establishment of a 25 kV transmission line, capable of accommodating up to 34 kV. The Quebec government invested a total of $35 million to realize this vital service for the Kitcisakik community.
Challenges Remain
While the achievement of electricity is significant, many residents continue to face challenges, notably the absence of running water. Vice-Chief Adrienne Anichinapéo indicated that some community members still use sleds to collect water from distant sources. “Access to running water is also a critical need we want to address,” she added.
Families, like that of resident Billie-Anne, are eagerly awaiting full connectivity. “My son is cold. There’s a draft in his room,” she said, while expressing hope for a speedy resolution to their ongoing issues.
- Project Name: Animiki Ickote
- Location: Kitcisakik, Quebec
- Investment: $35 million from Quebec Government
- Number of Poles Installed: 2,000
- Transmission Line Capacity: 25 kV (up to 34 kV)
- Distance Covered: 70 kilometers
As the community of Kitcisakik embraces this new chapter with electricity, it also looks forward to addressing other essential needs, like running water, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for all its residents.
