Maine voters reject $10 billion Hydro-Quebec deal; Quebec vows to fight

CANADIAN PRESS • November 2, 2021

Maine voters rejected an enormous Hydro-Quebec project Tuesday, delivering a blow to the energy giant, and to Quebec, to the tune of $10 billion. A proposed power line would carry Quebec-made hydropower to Massachusetts for 20 years, but it needs to pass through Maine. The line is already already under construction and has all the necessary regulatory approvals, but non-governmental groups in Maine gathered the signatures needed to force a referendum. Hydro-Quebec CEO Sophie Brochu said the Crown corporation hadn't been aggressive enough at fighting the opponents. Quebec Premier François Legault said that he's still confident the contract will be carried out.