Industrial Profile Of Shawinigan

Shawinigan is one of the major players of the industrial revolution that took place in Canada over the last century. For example:

  • First aluminium smelter in Canada (on October 21, 1901)
  • First large electrochemical complex in Canada
  • First aluminium plant in Canada (the second in North America)
  • First major hydro-electric complex in Quebec

Four major technologies have thus marked the industrial history of Shawinigan, i.e. hydro-electricity, aluminium, pulp and paper, and electrochemistry. Its rich past contributed to the development of a world-class industrial infrastructure, an innovation culture, a highly skilled industrial labour force, and state-of-the-art outsourcing solutions.

100 Years of Industrial Tradition

Shawinigan has seen a huge economic growth since the turn of the 20th century in large part due the hydro-electric stations that generated hydro-electricity from the Saint-Maurice River that flowed through its territory. Great industrialists and researchers shaped its landscape as well as the lives of its people. Today, the memory of these builders and their hard labour is brought to life through the Cité de l'Énergie.  This impressive observation tower, constructed in 1997 and unique in Quebec, is also home to a museum that chronicles 100 years of Quebec’s industrial history.

Photo : Barrage Grand-Mère

Four areas are targeted as a priority:

  • Energy and energy efficiency
  • Transportation equipment
  • Metal processing
  • Electronics, and information and communication technology

A City that Looks Ahead

Proud of its industrial past, Shawinigan is now banking on diversity to revive its economy. Through close partnership with various stakeholders in the region, Shawinigan has adopted a new economic development and diversification plan to once again become the thriving city it once was.

 

Photo : Travailleurs

A Region full of Insight, Resources, and Builders

Because of its unique geographical location, the Mauricie region stands apart as the central point of the great industrial St. Lawrence Valley. It represents a pool of unequalled natural and industrial resources. Its population of 261,000 people, nearly 60% of whom live in urban areas, covers an area of 40,000 square kilometres.