4 April 2024

10:55 – 12:30

Amphi 4

Simon Deschênes

Simon Deschênes has been Mayor of the town of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts since 2016, after serving as a municipal councillor from 2009 to 2016. Within the Union des Municipalités du Québec (UMQ), he holds various positions, including member of the Board of Directors, Chairman of the Renewable Energy Production Committee, and member of the Centrality Municipalities Caucus. His passion for renewable energy also led him to become President of the Régie intermunicipale de l’énergie Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine, as well as Vice-President of the Alliance de l’énergie de l’est. Simon Deschênes is also active in public transit, as a member of the Board of Directors of the Régie intermunicipale du transport collectif Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine (RÉGÎM). Committed to public health, he sits on the board of directors of the Fondation santé Haute-Gaspésie, helping to improve health services in his region. His commitment and leadership make him a key player in the economic and environmental development of his community and region.

Debate: Are municipalities key partners in the energy transition?

Quebec municipalities are key players in achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. They play a crucial role in decarbonization, renewable energy production and energy efficiency, contributing to revenue diversification and local economic development. By raising awareness of the need for more efficient electricity consumption, promoting the social acceptability of energy projects and accelerating energy production, municipalities are becoming key partners in Quebec’s energy transition. By collaborating with governments and energy players, municipalities can enhance the energy resilience of communities and actively contribute to meeting today’s climate and energy challenges.