Feds offer more cash for new P.E.I. electric cables

The federal government has announced another $18.9 million in funding for the electricity cable project from P.E.I. to the mainland.

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Thursday's announcement brings the federal government contribution to nearly $70 million, or about half of the total project cost.

The provincial portion of the project cost is nearly $74 million.

"The project will foster economic growth and help grow the middle class in Atlantic Canada by supporting job creation and making cheaper, cleaner forms of energy available to residents and businesses in the province," said Cardigan MP Lawrence MacAulay.

The new cables are needed as the old cables, installed four decades ago, are at the end of their lifespan.

Maritime Electric says the installation should be completed by the end of the year.

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