Épargne Placements Québec

To demonstrate its commitment not only to developing the Green Bond market, but also to protecting the environment, Québec put in place a Green Bond program in February 2017. Green Bonds issued by the government raise capital for specific projects that generate tangible benefits with regard to protecting the environment, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions or adapting to climate change in Québec.

In order to track the use and allocation of funds related to eligible projects, an amount equal to the net proceeds from each issue of Green Bonds is credited to a designated account. As part of its Green Bond Program, Québec is committed to being transparent, and to informing Green Bond buyers, at least once a year, of how proceeds from the issue are used ("use of proceeds"), until all funds have been allocated. It must also provide a list of projects in which the funds have been invested, a description of each project, the amounts invested and an estimate of the benefits to the environment.

Since the implementation of its Green Bond Program, the Québec government has committed to being a regular issuer on this market (see the list of Green Bond Issues). Québec also publishes annually an information bulletin for investors.

In addition, Épargne Placements Québec now offers a green product to meet Quebecers’ saving needs: Fixed-rate Green Bonds (FRGB). The sums collected from the sale of FRGBs will be channelled to one or more projects already identified as eligible to be financed through the issuance of Québec Green Bonds.

Find out more about FRGBs or contact an investment officer at Épargne Placements Québec .