NB, Quebec to talk this summer about possible energy partnerships

The Canadian Press
June 24, 2009
 

NB, Quebec to talk this summer about possible energy partnerships 

New Brunswick is entering into discussions with Quebec to determine if the two provinces can work together to lower energy rates and share transmission capacity.

Premier Shawn Graham said Tuesday that officials from both governments, as well as from NB Power and Hydro-Quebec, have been instructed to spend the summer finding ways to co-operate on accessibility, supply, transmission, market opportunities and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Graham said it's too early to offer any specific examples of how New Brunswick could lower power rates by working with Quebec, but noted Quebec is in a position to benefit from New Brunswick's transmission capacity to export power. New Brunswick could also benefit from access to cheaper energy.

Quebec residents benefit from cheaper power rates because of the province's reliance on hydroelectricity.

"We're situated next door to one of the largest power utilities in North America with the cheapest power rates," Graham said. "So what's important in the discussions for New Brunswick as we move forward is how we can access competitive energy rates and, at the same time, use our geographic location to be a mutual benefit for the province of Quebec."

Graham said he would like the officials to report back to government by September.

He said the discussions will focus on a number of topics and refused to rule out whether they would include the possibility of privatizing NB Power.

Graham said he's contacted officials from the Atlantic region, as well as Maine Gov. John Baldacci, to inform them of the potential partnership between the two provinces.

But Bruce Northrup, Tory member for Kings East, dismissed the announcement, saying New Brunswick is already buying cheaper electricity from Quebec.

NB Power has been buying replacement power from Quebec while Point Lepreau is being refurbished.