Extreme cold disrupts Hydro-Québec exports to Massachusetts during spike in power use

By Canadian Press on January 30, 2026.

MONTRÉAL — Extreme cold forced Hydro-Québec to temporarily suspend its energy exports to Massachusetts just one week after inaugurating its new line.

Hydro-Québec and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs both confirmed the news, which was first reported by specialized media outlet E&E News.

The decision came as last weekend’s polar vortex led to a significant increase in demand in Quebec.

There is less water in Hydro-Québec’s reservoirs at the moment due to a three-year drought.

Hydro-Québec confirmed it suspended deliveries to Massachusetts over the weekend and for one hour on Tuesday morning out of a need to prioritize Quebec customers.

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs said it is aware of the constraints faced by Hydro-Québec during the period of extreme cold.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 30, 2026.

Stéphane Rolland, The Canadian Press

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