Opposition threatens US-Canada transmission lines

Significance Eastern Canada is one of the world’s largest producers of hydroelectric power, and well-placed for exporting renewable energy to the northeastern United States. However, the rejection by Maine voters of a transmission line last November highlights the political challenges for projects that cross multiple jurisdictions. Impacts Cheaper power could help develop advanced manufacturing in upstate New York, where the labour force has fallen sharply since 2008.

Opposition to lines linking Canada with the US West Coast is less likely as lines able to carry more power are already in place. Blocking Canadian electricity sales to New England will increase calls for White House-supported offshore wind development there.