SUSSEX (CNB) – Premier David Alward and Nova Scotia Premier Darrell Dexter today committed to continue their collaboration on energy issues. The two were in Sussex for a meeting of the Council for Atlantic Premiers.

The premiers echoed comments made by their respective energy ministers in February, when they agreed to identify priority energy opportunities and find ways to maximize benefits for the region.

"Working with partners in Nova Scotia and across the region to develop new energy opportunities will help us grow a more competitive and sustainable future for New Brunswick families and businesses," said Alward.

"At the end of the day, our goal is to access cleaner, more secure energy at stable prices for Nova Scotians," said Dexter. "We are working together, and we are making great progress. I am confident that regional co-operation will help Nova Scotia achieve its proposed renewable target of 40 per cent by 2020."

Atlantic utilities are assessing the benefits of closer integration of systems, including the transmission and electrical generation systems. The premiers have directed officials to work together over the summer to jointly review opportunities. The officials are to make recommendations on how the two provinces can optimize transmission and generation assets, where it is practical and economically-beneficial to residents of both provinces.

Nova Scotia and New Brunswick continue to support the work of the Atlantic Energy Gateway. A more robust transmission system between the two provinces will help increase the development of renewable energy resources, and improve transmission both within the Atlantic region and into the large United States market.

A stronger system will also encourage the success of future projects like the Lower Churchill development, which will ensure good jobs for the region; provide access to clean, long-term, stable-priced energy; and help the Atlantic region maximize economic opportunities.

Both premiers noted the important role the federal government can play to help vital projects like Lower Churchill, and other regional plans of national significance. Both said they look forward to a continuing collaboration with the federal government on energy-related issues.


16-05-11