Michael Sabia Steps Down from Hydro-Québec in a Surprise Move
Hey everyone, let’s talk about a major shakeup that’s sending ripples through both the political and business communities here in Canada. Michael Sabia, the president and CEO of Hydro-Québec, has just announced his resignation, and this wasn’t something many saw coming. After less than two years in the role, he’s set to leave in July to take on an even more influential position—as the Clerk of the Privy Council and Secretary to the Cabinet, essentially becoming the top civil servant in the federal government under Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Now, this news hit hard in Quebec, especially for Premier François Legault and his administration. Sabia wasn’t just any CEO—he was considered Legault’s key player in executing Hydro-Québec’s massive development plan. We’re talking about a near $200 billion investment strategy to double the province’s electricity production by 2035. Sabia’s fingerprints were all over this, from legislative reforms to major agreements like the preliminary deal with Newfoundland and Labrador on the Churchill River hydroelectric project.
What’s even more surprising is how abruptly this announcement was made. Some government officials only found out hours before the public did, including Quebec’s Minister of Energy, who had just met with Sabia the day before. That kind of last-minute communication definitely raises eyebrows.
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Sabia’s exit also comes on the heels of the controversial passing of Bill 69, which gave Hydro-Québec expanded powers to fast-track its development goals. This was legislation many believed Sabia needed to fully realize his mandate—yet days later, he’s stepping away. Understandably, this has sparked concern and criticism from opposition leaders, who are now questioning the government’s direction and transparency.
For Sabia, this move marks a return to federal service. Previously a deputy minister of finance in Ottawa, and before that head of the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, he’s no stranger to major leadership roles. In his new federal position, he’ll be working closely with Mark Carney on national priorities, including large-scale infrastructure and economic projects.
From a broader perspective, his departure is bittersweet. On one hand, he leaves behind a clear and ambitious roadmap for Quebec’s energy future. On the other, his exit delays its implementation and destabilizes the leadership at Hydro-Québec once again—this being the second major resignation in just a few years, following Sophie Brochu’s early departure in 2023.
Sabia himself says the decision wasn’t easy, but that he believes Hydro-Québec is in good hands. Still, many are left wondering—why now? And who can fill his shoes at such a pivotal moment?
So, it’s a story that’s far from over. All eyes will now be on the search for his successor and how this sudden change impacts Quebec’s energy ambitions.
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