OPINION-EDITORIAL

B.C. COMMITTED TO LOW CARBON FUTURE

By Blair Lekstrom Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources July 30, 2009

The recent ruling by the independent BC Utilities Commission that suggested BC Hydro should increase reliance on Burrard Thermal has understandably generated some concern.

 

Let me be absolutely clear. The B.C. government has no plans to increase the use of Burrard Thermal as a result of this decision or for any other reason. We have stated clearly in the provincial Energy Plan that we support BC Hydro’s plan to replace the firm energy supply from the Burrard Thermal plant with clean, renewable energy. 

 

Over the coming weeks, we will be reviewing the BCUC decision to ensure that BC Hydro has the flexibility to meet our energy plan and climate change goals, which will require a significant and growing supply of clean, renewable energy.

 

By focusing on B.C.’s natural strengths and competitive advantages, we are encouraging a diverse, competitive and sustainable energy sector. B.C. has the potential to become a clean energy powerhouse and, as minister responsible, I am committed to building a legacy of which all British Columbians can be proud.

 

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