Massachusetts ratepayers to pay extra $512M for transmission line for Canadian hydropower

Three Massachusetts utilities and Central Maine Power’s parent company have agreed that Massachusetts ratepayers will cover an additional $512 million for a delayed power transmission project in Maine, meant to transport Canadian hydropower to the New England grid. Despite the project’s delay and the increased cost from $1 billion to $1.5 billion due to inflation and opposition-caused delays, proponents claim it remains a cost-effective and environmentally beneficial initiative. The Massachusetts Legislature approved passing most extra costs to ratepayers, with estimated long-term savings of $3.4 billion and significant carbon reduction benefits. The project, providing 1,200 megawatts of clean energy, has faced regulatory and legal challenges but is expected to lower overall electricity prices and assist Massachusetts in meeting clean energy goals. Read more