Premier Dunderdale Highlights Provincial Hydroelectric Projects as New England Governors
and Eastern Canadian Premiers Discuss Clean Energy

The Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with her colleagues at the 37th Annual Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEG/ECP) unanimously passed a resolution that confirms a commitment to develop energy policies concerning clean energy supply and trade while strengthening the economy and maximizing the overall environmental benefits for the region.

“It is incredibly encouraging to hear such unified support of large scale hydroelectric projects from my colleagues throughout the Eastern Canadian and New England region,” said Premier Dunderdale. “We all recognize the tremendous resources we can harness through hydroelectric projects and the critical benefits our people will receive through clean, renewable, cost-effective energy sources. Today's resolution is reflective of our approach with Muskrat Falls, which will provide homes and businesses throughout our province with reliable electricity for generations to come.”

In addition to the crucial benefits to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, large-scale hydro from Canada, particularly Muskrat Falls, would assist states in achieving their renewable portfolio requirements, would lower regional greenhouse gas emissions, improve reliability, and facilitate local intermittent renewable resource developments such as wind and solar.

“Muskrat Falls is an excellent example of regional collaboration and what can be achieved when jurisdictions work together toward a common goal,” added Premier Dunderdale. “Our development will create a regional energy marketplace that will provide for greater choice of renewable energy supply, reduce reliance on thermal generation, and increase electricity trade. I look forward to continued conversations with my colleagues throughout Canada and the New England states as we continue to develop opportunities for clean, reliable energy and look to create a network to transport that energy in a secure manner.”

During the discussion, the New England States Committee on Energy presented on a variety of energy issues, including the opportunities for additional Canadian hydro exports to the New England states. A copy of that presentation can be found at www.nescoe.com 

NEG/ECP represents 11 jurisdictions, comprising the six New England Governors and the five Eastern Canadian Premiers. This year's two-day conference, which concludes today, is taking place in La Malbaie, Quebec.

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2013 09 09                          3:40 p.m.