Atlantic Canada’s premier is seeking a decision soon on the proposed Atlantic Loop Energy Corridor from Ottawa, noting Wednesday that the massive project will take time to build and climate targets are falling short.
estimated $5 billion the noose The proposal would link the four provinces to Quebec and Labrador by hydropower and is seen as an important part of the alternative energy mix for the region.
After a meeting in Pictou, NS, host Premier Tim Houston told reporters that although talks are ongoing, the premiere needs to work out how or if the project can proceed.
“Time is running out,” Houston said. “We need to make sure we have clarity from the federal government on their timelines and of course their financial commitment.”
Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Fury said the project needed to start “quite quickly” because of its size and scope, adding his province could speak to his experience in getting the Muscat Falls hydroelectric project up and running.
“They (mega projects) do not happen overnight. They need significant diligence, they need planning, they need engineering and then they need actual construction time,” Fury said.
He said it is time for a clear plan as all provinces strive to meet aggressive climate emissions targets. “And if those goals are aspirational and not achievable, then we need to be realistic with the public as well,” he said.
Fury said provinces also need to have an open mind about alternative energy sources because the loop is only a “piece of the puzzle” when it comes to addressing energy needs and climate change.
need a balanced approach
a Study released last month This notion is supported by the Halifax-based Ecology Action Center, pointing out that although the loop is critical in meeting future energy demand, the sector needs a balanced approach.
The study says the mix of renewable energy will be particularly important for Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, the only two provinces in the region that still have coal-fired plants. Both provinces have committed to phase out their coal-fired generation by 2030.
But New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs warned that his province faces double-digit growth in the cost of electricity in the coming years, and for things like liquefied natural gas and offshore oil and gas, before a full switch to green energy the place to be.
“We are seeing a renewed interest in looking at some conventional energy sources to get us through this patch,” Higgs said.
During their meeting, the prime ministers also discussed issues such as rising cost of living, immigration and health care.
Prince Edward Island’s Premier Denise King said talks are on to share health care resources at a time when all systems are challenged by increasing waiting times and shortages of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses.
“We’ve always been for an Atlantic approach to the holistic delivery of health care,” King said. “we rely on.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on June 29, 2022.
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