In a referendum on Tuesday, November 2, 59% of voters in the state of Maine rejected a plan to build a major high-voltage line to supply Massachusetts with 9.45 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity each year from Quebec. Period of 20 years.

The Appalachian-Main interconnection line generates a total revenue of $ 10 billion, including local economic gains of $ 50 to $ 80 million. The Hydro-Quebec project includes a route of approximately 100 km from the Appalachian substation on the St. Adrian-de Ireland to the New England Clean Energy Connect (NECEC) line, and then extends over 230 km on the Maine.

In a press release, it was stated that the state-owned corporation will take the necessary steps to recognize its rights and ensure the continuation of the project, which will make a significant contribution to the fight against climate change.

“Over the past three years, the environmental benefits and financial spinoffs of the NECEC project have been approved by all relevant US regulatory bodies after a rigorous and independent process. This power line is the result of a local cooperation effort to tackle the climate crisis, an effort that continues to be an integral part of our long-term vision, ”we read.

On his part, Prime Minister Franകോois LeGolt said he knew the referendum would be tough and that his government had a plan. Other circumstances may be considered for the realization of this plan.