Terence Corcoran: Ontario’s iron-fisted energy model

September 30, 2009, 8:28 PM by NP Editor

Consumers will pay for subsidies, protectionism, and guarantees

By Terence Corcoran

At the G20 Pittsburgh summit, Canada endorsed a commitment to end subsidies to fossil fuel industries and step up subsidies to renewable energy sources. “We commit to...stimulate investment in clean energy, renewables, and energy efficiency,” said the leaders. If anybody wonders what stimulating clean and green energy programs might mean to economic policy, a working model comes into effect today in Ontario.  

Airshed Community Reaction to Ontario Government Decision re Power Plant

MISSISSAUGA AND OAKVILLE
September 30, 2009

Citizens of Mississauga and Oakville are outraged and deeply saddened by today's announcement regarding the location of a 900 megawatt gas-fired power plant (TransCanada's proposal) in the Clarkson / Oakville Airshed. This is not a win for anyone living in the airshed or the Southwest GTA.

The Ontario Power Authority today, September 30th, 2009, awards Trans Canada Pipeline  a 20-year contract to build, own and operate the 900 MW Oakville Generating Station (OGS).  The plant will be located at Royal Windsor Drive just northwest of the deadend at Maple Grove Road.

Contract negotiations are expected to conclude by the end of October, 2009 and construction complete by the end of 2013, generating 25 new jobs for Oakville.

Next steps involve completing an Environmental Review Report which will be made available for public review and comment in the fall. According to the Trans Canada press release, emissions from OGS will meet or better all environmental regulatory standards. TransCanada must receive approval from the Ministry of the Environment on impacts such as air quality and noise before construction of the facility can proceed. Local community input is very important and extensive consultations will continue with stakeholders.

Plan on attending New Central's 50th Anniversay on Friday October 23, 2009.

Reconnect with former classmates, staff and administration from New Central.

• Unhealthy - Will annually spew 2.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide and 3,059 metric tonnes of toxic emissions linked to cancer, asthma & heart disease.
• Not Needed - Power usage is decreasing.
• Waste of Tax Dollars - guaranteed payments whether or not power is produced.
• Greener Options Available