Editor:
Thank you for your reportage about the independent power projects (IPP) and the decision of the B.C. Utilities Commission (Coast Reporter, Aug. 14).
Much has been printed in the provincial press about American investment in Toba Inlet and IPPs elsewhere.
As local inlet neighbours drawing raw water from a nearby creek, we were privileged to tour the Tyson Creek IPP at the head of Narrows Inlet. We are surprised at the virulent negativity in the press about IPPs.
Perhaps our local IPP is special as it has been conceived, planned and executed by fellow "Coasters." The project has employed many of our neighbours for years as well as dozens of others from around the world with special expertise.
Tyson Creek has an enormous fall with no habitat for fish. Even so, the pipe drawing to the penstock takes less than half the flow from the waterfall and is adjusted lower for dry season. That flow is returned to Tyson Creek well before the level lands of the estuary.
The Sechelt Indian Band has permitted Renewable Energy Corp. to use these lower lands and the amenities thereon. Previously graded logging roads and bridges minimized the cutting for the four kilometre pipeline. Local investors have risked $30 million in this one project. They have scrupulously pursued the rules, regulations and inspections of federal, provincial and local governments who act in the public interest.
We normally have much water running downhill. The demand for clean power increases exponentially. Let us go hydro green.
Dan Wilson
Egmont
