PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • September 29, 2020
The Atlantic Loop would be a new series of electric transmission interconnections tying all five provinces together, allowing Labrador and Quebec hydropower to reach other provinces and eliminate their use of coal. Hydropower would flow south, likely using the proposed new transmission line to connect with the New England grid in Maine. Other lines north, from Maine to New Brunswick, would complete the Loop. Maine could get the same kind of benefits as the Atlantic provinces. There are two dangers for Maine. The first is that Hydro-Quebec and Central Maine Power’s Spanish parent will try to seize the initiative to turn economic gains to their own coffers rather than for Maine customers. The second is that Maine will delay in getting into the project planning and find itself facing a done deal. The best way to avoid both dangers is for Maine state government to get involved now. ~ Gordon L. Weil