Open from the end of June to early September
This dam, formerly known as Manic-2, is one of the largest hollow-joint gravity dams with a 420-tonne rotor motor. It was constructed between 1961 and 1967 and renamed to Jean-Lesage in 2010 in honour of the Quebec premier at the time of its construction. It has 8 generating units to power the dam, with rotors spinning to generate electricity. The Georges Dor building on-site offers exhibitions on the world’s first 735-kV transmission line.
Guests can take a guided tour lasting 90 minutes to enter the cavities of the dam and see one of the turbines inside the hydroelectric powerhouse. Additionally, you can check out the exhibition on the 735-kV transmission line that created a new age of electricity transmission in modern society. It is recommended that guests bring a sweater, and closed shoes are mandatory. The tours and the exhibition are provided in both official languages. Whether you’re in the area for a vacation or want to see, the magnificent dam standing tall along your way, come check out the Centrale Jean-Lesage!
Photo: By Bouchecl, CC BY-SA 3.0
