Gov. Patrick heading to Canada for energy conference

BOSTON (AP) - Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick is heading to Canada to discuss alternative energy sources, including hydropower.

Patrick leaves Sunday to attend the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers' Annual Conference in Quebec.

Patrick said the conference is an opportunity to strengthen regional partnerships to build on Massachusetts' leadership in creating renewable energy while exploring collaborative approaches to expand hydropower and other alternative energy sources.

Other topics include climate change challenges, energy supply, natural gas expansion, commercialization of electric vehicles and regional transportation issues.

Patrick said expanding reliance on hydropower has the potential to lead to lower costs for ratepayers and fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Massachusetts has seen a steady increase in solar and wind energy production in recent years.

Patrick returns to Massachusetts on Monday.

Cox Media Group