Since 1994, this hydroelectric station has been undergoing gradual renovations and replacement of its generation units. The plant was powered by the Beauharnois Canal, which had been newly dredged and expanded to one kilometre in width for that purpose. At the time of its construction, it was considered to be the largest hydroelectric station in Canada. Today, at 1,900 MW, it is still one of the largest run-of-river plants in the world.
The current project also includes restoration of the station’s historic art deco architecture, which led it to be designated as a National Historic Site. Renovations continue, and are expected to be completed in 2023, with the last of six generating units undergoing performance optimization.
