The Sunshine Coast is being flooded with independent power producers and run-of-river hydro projects.
One proposed for the Tzoonie River watershed is in the environmental review stage. Two public meetings have been held on the Coast and they've both drawn vocal crowds speaking for but mostly against the projects. The latest project is by Plutonic Power for Bute Inlet. Public meetings were held in both Powell River and Sechelt this week.
Run-of-river power generation is not a bad thing and opponents to these projects have to start changing their way of thinking. What should be the top concern is not stopping these projects altogether, but encouraging a full-panel review under the Canadian Environmental Assessment act to ensure that the environmental values in the areas where these projects are proposed are fully being looked at, that there are terms of reference involved and that it is proven that minimal environmental impacts will take place because of them.
Things like wildlife, drinking water, fish stocks and forestry can not be taken for granted at the expense of these power projects, but if these environmental concerns are looked at and protected, then independent power projects (IPPs) are worth consideration.
According to BC Hydro, residents in B.C. pay less for electricity than most areas in Canada, yet we use more energy on average. At the current forecast of future growth, residents in this province will increase their energy demands by approximately 1.7 per cent for the next 10 years. BC Hydro is looking at a number of ways to meet our increased demand for energy, including IPPs and run-of-river hydro projects. We need new sources of renewable electricity to fuel a sustainable economy and a healthy lifestyle for future generations. IPPs and run-of-river hydro projects are the answer. If all those opposed have powerful alternatives, we would like to hear about them. Instead of condemning all IPPs as big, bad, evil projects, suggest alternative solutions. Until then, let's make sure we are getting all the facts and the right information. Hold these companies to the fire to make sure the environment is being protected and ensure that all reviews are as complete and transparent as possible.
If communities work together with these companies instead of always against them, we can achieve what everyone is looking for - and that's a sustainable and healthy future for all.
