"Now that the Provincial Government has received this necessary information, the Province and Maritime Electric are in a position to develop a concrete plan to see the project installed by the fall of 2016," said the Premier. "Officials have been instructed to finalize the funding agreement with Infrastructure Canada, with each level of government committing $50 million."

The Provincial Government received the full confirmation of the federal funding on Friday, June 19, the same day as the deadline for responses to the cable supply and installation request for proposals. The proposals are now in the process of being fully reviewed.

The new electricity connection is the province's top infrastructure priority and the most significant project for Prince Edward Island since the construction of the Confederation Bridge.

A new connection of 360 MW will provide electricity security and allow for future growth. ‎The additional capacity will provide the province more flexibility for power purchase agreements, allowing for larger purchases of electricity when prices are favorable.

The Province of Prince Edward Island will own the new connection, through the P.E.I Energy Corporation. Maritime Electric will ‎operate the project, as is the case with the existing cables.

The existing connection of two 100 MW lines is almost 40 years old and now operating beyond its design life. With significant increased electricity demand since their installation in 1977, the two cables are unable to ensure a secure energy supply.

Work on the new cables project is already in order to meet the ‎projected installation time of fall 2016. Public consultations on the connection will take place later this year and the project will be subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment.

“A new connection will secure the energy supply and help foster economic development by ensuring the capacity for growth," said the Premier.

“The province will continue to review provisions for generation and conservation to ensure Islanders have ready access to electricity,” said Transportation, Infrastructure and Energy Minister Paula Biggar. “We will continue to work with our regional partners and Maritime Electric to ensure Islanders have access to secure and affordable electricity.”