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Baker Joins Governors, Premiers; Renews Hydropower Push

ST. JOHN'S, Newfoundland (AP) — Gov. Charlie Baker says he hopes to make progress over the next few years bringing Canadian hydropower to Massachusetts.

Baker said the hydropower will help meet electricity demands and increase the state's reliance on renewable energy.

Baker made his comments Monday after joining other New England governors and eastern Canadian premiers in a discussion of regional energy issues.

The leaders gathered for their annual conference Monday in St. John's, Newfoundland. It was Baker's first official trip abroad since taking office in Massachusetts.

Baker said there's hydropower capacity in Canada and demand for energy in New England, particularly Massachusetts. The challenge he said is how to link the two.

Some environmentalists remain wary of the Canadian hydropower push.

Baker said he's also interested in increasing the state's access to natural gas.

Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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