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Legault says Quebec will find 'win-win' energy deal with N.L. as he steps down

  • The Canadian Press

  • Canadian Press

  • January 14, 2026

Coalition Avenir Quebec leader Francois Legault during a news conference during an election campaign stop in Saint-Jerome, Que., Sunday, Aug. 5, 2012. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes

MONTREAL -- Quebec Premier Francois Legault said he was confident his province would find a "win-win" energy deal with Newfoundland and Labrador as he announced his resignation today.

Legault told reporters he believes a tentative agreement struck between hydro utilities in the two provinces was already a win for both governments.

But he said that "unfortunately" there was an election in Newfoundland and Labrador last year that placed a new premier in power who disagrees with his conclusion.

Progressive Conservative Premier Tony Wakeham has ordered a panel to review the preliminary agreement by the end of April.

The draft deal was shepherded by Legault and former Newfoundland and Labrador Liberal premier Andrew Furey.

If finalized, it would see Hydro-Quebec pay much more for hydroelectric power from the Churchill Falls plant in Labrador.

The deal would also lead to the development of new projects on the Churchill River.

Legault says he will step down when his Coalition Avenir Quebec party chooses his replacement.

This report by was first published Jan. 14, 2026.