Where do you stand on local energy generation?
No matter which side of the energy debate you stand, there is one thing we can all agree – this province needs clean, reliable and affordable energy. These three goals must determine our choices on energy generation in Ontario.
The Jarvis Energy and Environment Symposium engaged environmental and power production stakeholders in a wide-ranging discussion to inform residents on local energy production options. Through a survey that night, many had their say. The results were as follows:
“Do you feel the Ontario Government should invest in clean-air technology and carbon capture at OPG Nanticoke?”
- Yes – 88 per cent
- No – 12 per cent
“Which of the following options should your local MPP pursue for Nanticoke?”
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Continue operating OPG Nanticoke while making further investments in clean-air technology and carbon capture” – 68 per cent |
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Phase out large-scale energy production at Nanticoke – along with the corresponding jobs – and pursue alternatives such as wind, solar, conservation and efficiency measures” – 13.6 per cent |
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Close OPG Nanticoke and pursue the construction of a nuclear power plant” – 2.3 per cent |
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Pursue a nuclear facility at Nanticoke while continuing to advocate for investments in clean-air technology and carbon capture at the existing coal-fired facility” – 9.5 per cent |
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Other options – 6.6 per cent |
I continue to argue for investment in clean-air technology to build on the $250 million the former government invested in emission abatement at Nanticoke and Lambton. Rather than building on the previous government’s leadership, the present Premier has wasted four years doing nothing to clean up our coal plants. Now more than ever, the province should invest in clean-air technology – at least at Nanticoke where it will do the most good – and explore options such as coal gasification and carbon capture.
Further, the government has posted it’s directive to, “ensure that coal is not used to generate electricity” at Nanticoke and three other coal-fired power stations, on the Environmental Bill of Rights for a 30 day public review and comment period.
Those wishing to comment on the most recent coal-closure promise can write to:
David Argue, Senior Policy Advisor
Ministry of the Environment - Air Policy and Climate Change Branch
135 St. Clair Avenue West - Floor 4
Toronto Ontario, M4V 1P5
In the ongoing debate on the possibility of new local energy production my position is clear. Area residents must be provided with information and the opportunity for input before any decisions are made with respect to future energy production. If Premier McGuinty wants nuclear construction at Nanticoke, he must demonstrate that his plan would be safe, and would be economically superior to any alternatives.
The local debate mirrors many of the questions being considered across the province.
Currently, our goal of clean, affordable and reliable energy is in jeopardy. In recent years, lack of confidence by business in the security, reliability and price stability of our electricity supply has facilitated Ontario’s economic troubles. It’s time to put an end to the empty words and turn things around with a realistic plan that will transform Ontario’s energy system to meet these goals.
Based on the response to the Jarvis Energy Symposium, local residents are clearly engaged in the area energy debate - I encourage all those who have yet to have their say to do so.
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