Hydro-Québec says its logo could be misread, so it edited the “Q” to avoid confusion with the Tampa Bay Lightning ahead of Friday’s game.
A utility logo is getting a makeover, and it has everything to do with hockey symbolism.
Hydro-Québec says it noticed its familiar “Q” logo could be interpreted in the wrong way this week, pointing to a lightning-bolt-like end that some might associate with the Tampa Bay Lightning rather than the Montreal Canadiens.. In response, Misryoum reports that Hydro shared a tongue-in-cheek video explaining the change and the intent behind it.
In the clip, the company shows the “Q” being edited to remove the lightning-bolt look, replacing it with a more standard line. The message is delivered with lighthearted humor, including a reference to the classic Hockey Night in Canada theme.
This kind of clarification matters because small design details can quickly take on big meanings in sports-heavy moments, especially when teams and branding are already in the spotlight.
Hydro-Québec also addressed the situation directly in the post, saying it was made aware that part of its logo could be misinterpreted and that it was setting the record straight. The utility’s account then updated the logo version shown on its Instagram and TikTok profiles to reflect the edit.
The Canadiens reacted as well, commenting that the updated version looks “much better.” That quick response added to the playful tone around what began as a branding concern.
Misryoum notes that the timing could hardly be more noticeable: the company’s video appeared only hours before the Canadiens defeated the Lightning in Game 5 of the NHL playoffs.
Now attention shifts back to the ice, with the Canadiens preparing to take on Tampa Bay in Montreal on Friday. Misryoum reports that Montreal currently leads the series 3 games to 2.
In the end, the logo change is less about rivalry than about perception. In a moment where fans are watching every signal, Hydro-Québec’s tweak is a reminder that even official branding can become part of the conversation.