Uncertainty with Quebec Should Encourage Greater Coordination on Other Electric Opportunities

Lack of meaningful relief for ratepayers also a key concern

Media Statement: For Immediate Release, August 17th, 2026

Today, Prime Minister Mark Carney, Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham, and Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette announced the “Definitive Cooperation and Implementation and Agreement between Hydro Québec and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro” – a new indefinite agreement for Churchill Falls, Gull Island, and transmission infrastructure.

“Today’s announcement brings up mixed feelings. On one hand, we are glad to see Newfoundland and Labrador engaging in collaboration for the advancement of renewable energy in the form of wind power and electricity transmission. This has the potential to be a strong example of how coordination on electricity infrastructure can support economic growth.

On the other hand, the primary focus is still on mega-hydro development, which is not green, the deal does not support long-term electricity affordability for residential ratepayers in Newfoundland and Labrador, there is a lot of clarification required on the process of onshore wind development, and the Innu Nation is not currently a signatory. We look forward to the special session of the House of Assembly and opportunities to engage in conversation about the details of the agreement.

Given the uncertainty around the deal as a whole it is also vital for Newfoundland and Labrador to explore other opportunities. Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island have demonstrated what this can look like; a regional electricity cooperation MOU, the Wasoqonatl intertie, advancing offshore wind, and more. Newfoundland and Labrador should be engaging in these regional conversations. Here at home, there is also more work to do to meaningfully engage communities and workers, and support rural and remote communities in building out a variety of renewable energy solutions and an electricity grid that reliably and affordably serves all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.” – Shauna Kelly, Offshore Wind Coordinator – Newfoundland and Labrador, Sierra Club Canada

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