The Clean Energy Corridor (NECEC) can help Maine rebuild our tourism base. The deal struck between Hydro-Quebec and Gov. Janet Mills includes $10.5 million for economic development and regional tourism promotion in Western Maine. 

This commitment is part of a package of benefits that will help Maine thrive and prosper toward a clean energy future. Another key benefit is a $15 million investment in fiber optic broadband infrastructure in Somerset and Franklin Counties. This will be enormously helpful to families during this time of increased remote work and distance learning. 

The project will help sustain areas of greater local financial need by generating $18 million a year in new tax revenue for host communities. That money supports first responders, schools, local infrastructure, and property tax relief. 

And don’t forget that cleaner, cheaper hydropower means lower electric costs for Mainers. 

These benefits could disappear, however, if the fossil fuel companies pushing to ban the NECEC get their way on a November ballot initiative. If this important project falls through, Mainers won’t just lose out on cleaner energy, we’ll lose a ton of benefits that can help us rebuild after the pandemic. 

When you vote on the November ballot question about the NECEC, remember to vote NO. A NO vote says no to the out-of-state fossil fuels companies that want to deprive Maine of meaningful benefits from the NECEC.