The Quebec government is warning that a draft energy deal with Newfoundland and Labrador could be at risk if it’s not settled before next year’s provincial election.
In a recent interview with The Canadian Press, Economy Minister Christine Fréchette said a defeat for the governing Coalition Avenir Québec in 2026 could jeopardize the $33.8-billion energy supply agreement.
Fréchette said she has made the argument directly to Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Tony Wakeham.
“If another party comes to power (in Quebec) in 2026, it’s not certain that this agreement will go ahead,” she said.
The two provinces announced a preliminary deal in December 2024 that would raise the rates Hydro-Québec pays for electricity from the Churchill Falls plant in Labrador. They planned to reach a final agreement by April 2026….