Green Energy from Quebec, Canada, would arrive to New York City by the powers of Hydro Quebec and the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK). This Monday both companies released a statement in which they agreed to work in conjunction in the case of Hydro Quebec winning the energy supply contract.
Firstly, if it happens, it would be a historic achievement by both companies; especially the MCK, as it will be the first shared ownership agreement for a green energy export transmissions line.
Secondly, the MCK would become joint owner of a 400-kV underground transmission line, that would run from the Hertel substation in La Prairie, to the US border; there, it will connect with the Champlain Hudson Power Express; a line which will be built between the Canadian border and Astoria, Queens, New York.
Thirdly, MCK will be in charge of the construction of the overall project; for that it will benefit from revenues over a 40-year period. Nevertheless, the statement highlighted that there are still a number of issues to negotiate before a definitive agreement emerges.
Moreover, Hydro Quebec still needs to win the bid. However, the Hertel Line will be carrying a green energy onto New York City; which will help to its decarbonization efforts and overall climate goals.
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Green energy transmission to help both NYC and MCK
In addition, New York City is a city that Mohawk iron workers helped build; consequently, this project meets MCK’s objectives of investing in environmentally sustainable; green energy projects.
On the other hand, the participation of MCK in the project is a significant milestone for the company; in fact, it demonstrates that collaborating with an Indigenous community can prove to be mutually beneficial for industry and Indigenous communities alike.
Furthermore, as the Covid-19 pandemic took a hit on community funds, this project will help stabilize the community balance sheet and will help Kahnawà:ke become increasingly self-sufficient, which is a key to self-reliance.
Finally, if Hydro Quebec wins the bid, more developments and partnership goals will arise from both Hydro Quebec and the MCK.
