Annual meeting focuses on future of clean renewable energy
La Malbaie, Quebec – Governor Lincoln D. Chafee, the co-chair of the 37th Annual Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers today and tomorrow (Sept. 8-9) in La Malbaie, is meeting and strengthening partnerships with New England's governors and Eastern Canada's premiers.
This year's conference focuses on the region's energy future and includes discussions regarding clean, affordable hydropower, which will help our residents and businesses lower energy expenses and decrease our carbon footprint. Other initiatives receiving attention at the conference include encouraging greater use of energy-efficient vehicles; adapting to climate change from an environmental standpoint; and supporting mutual assistance in the event of an emergency.
"We have an unprecedented opportunity to forge a regional and international coalition," Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said. "By working together, we can make our region both cleaner and more competitive – reducing energy costs and attracting investments to the region while protecting our quality of life and environment."
As co-chair of the conference Governor Chafee presents the welcoming remarks in which he plans to encourage the attendees to continue to strengthen partnerships between the two regions on the issue of clean energy. Michael Lewis, Director of the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) and President of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), is joining the Governor at the conference to provide a regional update during a roundtable discussion with the governors.