For Immediate Release
June 15, 2005
Toronto – Ontario’s Minister of Energy today took a brave step by delaying the phase-out of coal until an adequate replacement energy supply is available, and by creating a plan to have reserve capacity in the province.
However, the OCC has urged the Minister to go further by aggressively pursuing new green-field nuclear capacity, continuing refurbishing existing nuclear capabilities, and considering other options like the use of clean-coal technology.
“Keeping Ontario’s air clean is a worthwhile objective,” said Len Crispino, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “But this Minister must also consider how to keep the cost of power affordable while increasing supply.”
The Ontario business community is increasingly concerned that replacement energy sources are coming online with a higher base-load price, which could dramatically increase the cost of doing business in Ontario.
The OCC has expressed this concern to the government, suggesting that the Minister examine the use of so-called clean-coal technology as well as an expansion of Ontario’s nuclear generating capacity.
“Without ensuring a healthy mix of supply sources this Minister is risking Ontario’s competitive position,” said Crispino. “Our hope is that the government will continue to listen to the OCC’s advice and will examine these other options.”
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The OCC represents over 60,000 businesses through 160 local Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, and has been the business advocate of choice since 1911. Its advocacy and policy initiatives focus on six areas key to the economic well-being of the province: health; education; energy; finance & taxation; transportation & infrastructure; and border issues.
For further information:
Brad Dugard
Director, Media Relations and Communications
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
(416) 482-5222, ext. 241
