June 23, 2009

QUEBEC CITY and FREDERICTON (CNB) - Quebec Premier Jean Charest and New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham today announced their desire to step up their discussions with a view to developing partnerships in the energy sector.

The premiers have directed their energy officials, as well as representatives of NB Power and Hydro-Quebec, to explore opportunities for co-operation, particularly in the areas of accessibility, supply, transmission, market opportunities, and greenhouse-gas reduction.

"New Brunswick has identified the energy sector as an essential component of the province's economic development," said Graham. "That is why, today, we believe it is necessary to further explore opportunities for increased collaboration with Quebec in this sector, especially with regard to clean and renewable energy supplies at a competitive cost."

"Quebec and New Brunswick have a great deal to gain from working together to improve their position in the energy market," said Charest. "In recent years, our government has made substantial investments in order to develop greater capacity. Today, Quebec offers clean and renewable energy, at a competitive price. That is a considerable advantage given the current worldwide efforts to combat climate change."