The site of a former explosives manufacturing plant in Quebec is poised to become a significant player in Canada’s energy transition. Both the Quebec and Canadian governments are set to make a major announcement regarding the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing supply chain. Speculation has been circulating for weeks that a Swedish battery developer and manufacturer could establish operations in McMasterville, located approximately 30 kilometers from Montreal.
While the news remains unofficial, some residents of McMasterville have expressed concerns about potential noise, odors, and increased traffic associated with the plant’s operations. Over 700 people have signed a petition and voiced their apprehensions at a city hall meeting earlier this month.
To gain insight into what lies ahead, McMasterville residents can look to the city of Becancour, Quebec, which is now a central figure in Canada’s EV battery manufacturing strategy. Becancour, nestled along the Saint-Lawrence river between Quebec City and Montreal, has seen significant growth and transformation.
Becancour Mayor Lucie Allard anticipates a major influx of newcomers and thousands of new jobs due to the city’s role in the EV battery manufacturing sector. While this growth brings excitement, it also presents challenges and concerns.
The industrial park in Becancour has been bustling with activity as major investors, including GM and Ford, have set up operations. Governments have invested billions of taxpayer dollars to boost EV battery manufacturing across Canada, aiming to create a competitive and sustainable ecosystem and supply chain for the industry. This shift was partly influenced by the realization after the COVID-19 pandemic that relying on countries like China, which dominates the market, carries risks.
Becancour has attracted significant investments in this EV battery manufacturing revolution due to its well-equipped industrial park, managed by Donald Olivier. The park, one of Canada’s largest, is strategically located near shipping lanes, railways, and major highways, offering easy access to critical minerals from the Abitibi region of Quebec.
Despite a turbulent history that saw previous mega-projects scrapped or relocated, the growing number of plants and increased job opportunities in the EV battery industry is boosting confidence in the region’s economic prospects.
One of the primary reasons electric battery manufacturers choose this area is Quebec’s abundant hydroelectric power resources, generated by dams built decades ago in the northern region. This green energy advantage is a significant draw for investors.
However, to ensure long-term sustainability, Quebec and Canada are also exploring the development of other clean energy sources like wind and solar.
Becancour faces a race against the clock as the plants aim to become fully operational by 2026. Preparations include building new roads, neighborhoods, and infrastructure to accommodate thousands of new workers who may choose to live in the area. Expansion of schools, emergency response plans, and security measures are also part of the comprehensive planning effort.
Mayor Allard sees the success of this transition as contingent on how well these changes benefit the city’s residents, with the potential for more sports facilities, grocery stores, and retail businesses among the opportunities that growth could bring to Becancour.