10/28/2008
Canada - Government releases preliminary report on wind energy program
A possible model for a community wind energy program for the province is now available for download on the Department of Energy website. The model is being proposed by Yves Gagnon, K.C. Irving chair of sustainable development at the Université de Moncton.
The preliminary report provides government with 29 recommendations and options on developing the program. Gagnon created the recommendations through information received at the 10 community forums that were held around the province in March and April of this year, as well as through researching other jurisdictions that provide programs for community renewable energy projects.
"I would like to thank Dr. Gagnon for his efforts in consulting with communities throughout the province and for submitting this comprehensive report," said Energy Minister Jack Keir. "Community involvement is an important piece in growing the New Brunswick Energy Hub, and is critical in achieving our goal of self-sufficiency."
The Department of Energy, in collaboration with NB Power, the New Brunswick System Operator and other provincial departments, is reviewing all of the recommendations. A variety of options for developing community wind energy will be looked at during the province's review. The review process will be completed this fall, with elements of the program to be presented to cabinet this winter.
Gagnon's report provides a complex examination of community wind and the opportunities it presents for New Brunswick. The report goes beyond the technical aspects of community wind energy by addressing issues related to the financing, governance and support for the development of community wind energy.
"The report presents innovative ways to finance renewable energy projects, while allowing New Brunswickers to participate and benefit from the development of a new energy sector that has great potential for economic development throughout the province," said Gagnon.
For more information, please contact Trevor Sievert at ts@windfair.net
The preliminary report provides government with 29 recommendations and options on developing the program. Gagnon created the recommendations through information received at the 10 community forums that were held around the province in March and April of this year, as well as through researching other jurisdictions that provide programs for community renewable energy projects.
"I would like to thank Dr. Gagnon for his efforts in consulting with communities throughout the province and for submitting this comprehensive report," said Energy Minister Jack Keir. "Community involvement is an important piece in growing the New Brunswick Energy Hub, and is critical in achieving our goal of self-sufficiency."
The Department of Energy, in collaboration with NB Power, the New Brunswick System Operator and other provincial departments, is reviewing all of the recommendations. A variety of options for developing community wind energy will be looked at during the province's review. The review process will be completed this fall, with elements of the program to be presented to cabinet this winter.
Gagnon's report provides a complex examination of community wind and the opportunities it presents for New Brunswick. The report goes beyond the technical aspects of community wind energy by addressing issues related to the financing, governance and support for the development of community wind energy.
"The report presents innovative ways to finance renewable energy projects, while allowing New Brunswickers to participate and benefit from the development of a new energy sector that has great potential for economic development throughout the province," said Gagnon.
For more information, please contact Trevor Sievert at ts@windfair.net
- Source:
- Canadian Wiind Energy Association
- Author:
- Edited by Trevor Sievert, Online Editorial Journalist / Author: Canwea Staff
- Email:
- ts@windfair.net
- Link:
- www.windfair.net/...
- Keywords:
- wind energy, wind farm, renewable energy, wind power, wind turbine, rotorblade, offshore, onshore
