A wind turbine project, first proposed three years ago, is causing a rift between Hydro-Quebec and the provincial government.
The Apuiat wind farm would cost $600 million and create 400 construction jobs.
The 57 turbine (200 MW) project was part of Hydro-Quebec's decade long plan to increase its renewable energy capacity by 4,000 MW.
It has the support of the Quebec Liberals and the Innu first nation that lives in the region between Baie Comeau and Sept Iles, but not from Hydro-Quebec President and CEO Eric Martel.
It a letter dated August 6, Martel said not only is the wind farm unnecessary due to the crown corporation's energy surplus for years to come, but it would also end up costing Hydro-Quebec $1.5 - $2 billion over 25 years.
That money could be passed on to you, the Hydro-Quebec customer.
The Innu first nations, which partnered with renewable energy developer/producer Boralex to promote the plan, was not happy with Martel's claims, saying his estimates did not make sense.
On Monday both Premier Philippe Couillard and Natural Resources Minister Pierre Moreau put their support behind the wind farm. Moreau said despite Martel's claim it would not increase electricity rates.
Hydro's CEO wasn't alone with criticism of the project, CAQ leader Francois Legault said by his calculation the Apuiat farm is not viable. Legault said if his party is elected, and he becomes the next Premier, on October 1 he could cancel the project.
Hydro-Quebec and the Innu community resumed negotiations concerning the wind farm this week.