Statement by Lorena Patterson, President and CEO of WaterPower Canada
May 21, 2026, Ottawa, ON – The Report by the Churchill River Independent Review Committee, released this week, identified areas requiring further discussion within the memorandum of understanding. We respect the review process and trust that both parties will use the committee’s findings to move toward a strong agreement built on long-term partnership and shared benefit. Major hydropower development requires partnerships that work for everyone at the table, and we are confident that a path forward exists.
The National Electricity Strategy announced last week by the Government of Canada underscores the urgency of expanding clean electricity infrastructure. Projects like Gull Island and Churchill Falls are precisely the kind of generational investments that strategy must enable. We hope this review serves as a productive step toward an agreement that unlocks that potential for both provinces and for Canada.
Background Information:
- In December 2024, Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and Hydro-Québec signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a New Long-Term Energy Purchase and Development Initiative, outlining a framework for the renewal of the Churchill Falls agreement and the development of new hydropower projects including Gull Island. Read the MOU here.
- On May 14, 2026, the Government of Canada launched a National Electricity Strategy. WaterPower Canada welcomed the strategy and its focus on expanding and modernizing Canada’s clean electricity infrastructure. Read our full statement here.
About WaterPower Canada:
WaterPower Canada is the national voice of Canada’s waterpower industry. As a not-for-profit trade association, WPC represents producers, manufacturers and developers who collectively account for more than 95 per cent of Canada’s waterpower capacity. The association advocates for the responsible development and use of waterpower to meet Canada’s current and future energy needs.
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Media Contact:
Paula Gray, Senior Director of Communications, WaterPower Canada, 613-608-8155, paula@waterpowercanada.ca