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VICTORIA – British Columbia continues on the path towards a
sustainable energy future with plans to expand the Province’s energy vision,
Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Minister Richard Neufeld announced today.
“We have great energy sector
opportunities in this province – in oil and gas, electricity and alternative
energy,” said Neufeld. “Much has changed in the energy sector in the last three
years, and we want to continue as leaders in environmentally sustainable energy
planning. We will build on the B.C. Energy Plan with a new energy vision for
future generations.”
The expanded energy plan will set a new vision for electricity, oil and
gas, and alternative energy, with a greater emphasis on conservation,
efficiency and innovation.
“The reality is we all consume
energy – when driving our kids to school, heating our homes, running our
businesses – in every part of our lives,” said Neufeld. “Just as B.C. has been
leading the country in recent years in economic and population growth, our
demand for energy has been outpacing other provinces as well.”
New policy and regulatory frameworks will be developed to ensure the new
energy vision can be achieved. Outcomes may include: new energy efficiency
measures; a strategy to continue to improve the oil and gas industry; increased
promotion of exploration; a strategy to reduce transportation emissions; and
innovative ways to attract and retain skilled labour.
“What we need to do is be efficient in our energy use and look at
sustainable solutions, including alternative energy,” said Neufeld. “The new
expanded energy vision will ensure we meet our great goals of leading the world
in sustainable environmental management and creating more jobs per capita than
anywhere else in Canada.”
A number of sources will inform the expanded energy vision, including
the anticipated BC Hydro Integrated Electricity Plan, the BC Progress Board
report on energy issues, the Alternative Energy and Power Technology Task Force
report, and the BC Competition Council reports on mining and oil and gas.
Consultation with key groups and individuals is also planned. Key elements of
the plan will be released as they are completed, with the final completed plan
targeted for release by the end of 2006.
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contact: |
Public Affairs Officer 250 952-0628 250 213-6943 (cell) |
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Visit the Province's website at www.gov.bc.ca for online information and services. |
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