An environmental group wants the state to halt construction of a $1 billion transmission line through western Maine.

The projects aims to deliver hydropower from Quebec to Lewiston, where it would connect to the New England power grid.

The Natural Resources Council of Maine says has filed a motion with the state Dept. of Environmental Protection, asking them to step in and stop construction of the 145-mile corridor.

Voters soundly rejected the project Tuesday, approving a statewide referendum to halt further construction.

Central Maine Power’s parent company quickly filed a lawsuit in Maine superior court, arguing the referendum was unconstitutional.