Vancouver Information and Newspaper

MONTREAL – The governor of Maine has expressed his concerns with Quebec Premier Jean Charest over Hydro-Quebec’s multibillion-dollar deal to buy New Brunswick’s power utility.

But John Baldacci’s deputy chief of staff says the governor believes there’s more work to be done.

Hydro-Quebec reached a tentative $4.75-billion agreement in November to take over the majority of NB Power’s assets, which include transmission lines to Maine.

David Farmer says Baldacci wants to ensure the deal will enable the state to lower its high power rates and protect its growing renewable energy sector.

Farmer says the governor raised several issues with Charest during a private dinner on Dec. 21 at his official residence in Augusta, Maine.

He says Hydro-Quebec president and CEO Thierry Vandal was present at the meeting, as were Baldacci’s energy advisers.

The prospect of Hydro-Quebec becoming a regional powerhouse following November’s megadeal has not only stoked fears in Atlantic Canada, but also among politicians and business leaders in New England.

The deal is expected to be finalized in March.