Release
Office of the Premier, Department of Intergovernmental Affairs, Department of Energy
July 23, 2026
CHARLOTTETOWN (GNB) – Premier Susan Holt signed a memorandum of understanding today with the governments of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island to strengthen regional electricity planning, improve grid reliability and support the long-term growth of Canada's electricity system.
The agreement was signed following discussions with Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston and Prince Edward Island Premier Rob Lantz during the 2026 Council of the Federation summer meeting. The three provinces will work with Natural Resources Canada to identify opportunities to strengthen regional electricity infrastructure, improve system reliability and support growing electricity demand across Atlantic Canada.
As Canada works to expand electricity generation to support economic growth, major projects and energy security, New Brunswick is helping lead efforts to build a stronger, more connected electricity system.
“New Brunswick is the Maritimes’ energy hub,” said Holt. “From our leadership in nuclear energy to stronger electricity interties across the region, New Brunswick is well-positioned to help build a cleaner, more affordable, reliable and resilient electricity system. Working together with our neighbours, New Brunswick will power Canada's energy future.”
The memorandum of understanding will support the development of a Maritime Regional Resource and Transmission Roadmap and Plan, including an assessment of opportunities for greater regional co-ordination across generation, transmission, demand-side resources and emerging energy resources. It will also examine the costs and benefits of enhanced regional planning and operations, including options related to a regional balancing authority and a Maritime independent electricity system operator.
With electricity demand increasing, the three provinces are seeking opportunities to better support economic growth, energy security and the transition to cleaner energy through stronger regional planning. The work will be guided by principles of fairness, affordability and reliability, including appropriate cost allocation and equitable outcomes for customers in each province.
“This work is about planning for New Brunswick's future in a way that protects customers, strengthens our economy and improves the reliability of our electricity system,” said Holt. “When we work together, we build a stronger, more reliable electricity system that benefits everyone in the region.”
The provinces will identify regulatory, legislative, governance, operational and cost-allocation issues that may need to be addressed to advance regional co-operation and integration. The work will focus on practical actions that can be advanced within existing structures, while also considering longer-term options that may require policy, governance or legislative changes.
The work aligns with the federal government’s National Strategy for an Electrified Canadian Economy. The road map and implementation plan are expected by spring 2027.
Related links
Memorandum of understanding on Maritime regional electricity co-operation and system integration
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Media Contact(s)
Katie Beers, press secretary, Office of the Premier, [email protected].