Hydro-Québec is seeking to increase the electricity rates it charges data centres, a move analysts say is intended to reflect rising demand. At a public hearing reviewing the proposal, consultants hired by the utility defend the changes, which would effectively double the energy costs for data centres under the rate plan discussed.
Consultants from Dunsky, an energy and climate consulting firm, tell the hearing that electricity demand from data centres is expected to more than double between 2024 and 2030. Other details and the specific rate mechanism are presented in the context of how Hydro-Québec plans to manage supply and demand as more data infrastructure comes online.
Across the coverage, the core points are consistent: consultants support Hydro-Québec’s proposal, frame it around projected growth in data-centre electricity use, and present their findings during the formal hearing process. The reports focus on the consultants’ testimony rather than any final decision or opposing arguments.
