Statement on Hydro-Quebec Power Deal

The Vermont Energy Partnership, of which IBEW Local 300 is a member, just issued a statement about the power deal recently struck between Vermont's largest electric utilities and Hydro-Quebec. Here it is:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
  
CONTACT: Guy Page, 802-223-0575 (office) or 802-730-2961 (cell), page@vtep.org / Brad Ferland, 802-999-2633, bferland@together.net
 
VTEP Statement on Proposed Hydro-Québec Contract
 
Montpelier, VT/August 12, 2010 – Following today’s announcement of a power purchase agreement between Hydro-Québec and Vermont utilities, Brad Ferland, President of the Vermont Energy Partnership, issued the following statement. 
 
“This is a very important step for Vermont’s long-term energy policy. Hydro-Québec provides large amounts of renewable electricity, playing an important role in making sure Vermont has a clean, abundant, and reliable electricity supply.
 
“This long-term power purchase agreement continues a valuable business relationshipwith Hydro-Québec. The utilities have done a great job with their dedication and hard work putting this deal together. 
 
“Vermont’s low-carbon, low-cost electric power has existed thanks to the ongoing, long-term contracts that state utilities have maintained with Hydro-Québec and Vermont Yankee. 
 
“The natural next step in our energy planning is for a new contract with Vermont Yankee to be finalized, so the largest in-state, base load power source can continue to benefit Vermonters by providing reliable and clean electricity. Furthermore, Vermont Yankee employs hundreds of Vermonters and serves as a key economic engine for the state.”
 
The Vermont Energy Partnership is a diverse group of more than 90 business, labor, and community leaders committed to finding clean, affordable and reliable electricity solutions to ensure Vermont stays a great place to live and work. Entergy, owner of Vermont Yankee, is a member of the Vermont Energy Partnership. Our mission is to educate policy makers, the media, businesses, and the general public about optimal solutions to preserve and expand our electricity network.  
 
Twitter: @VTEPVermont