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Follow Plutonic on FacebookMost hydroelectric projects require the building of large dams on rivers, which are very expensive. When large dams are built, the flow of the dammed river is radically changed and large areas of land are flooded, including wildlife habitat and vegetation.
Plutonic Power's run-of-river hydroelectric projects cause minimal environmental impact because large dams are not built. A run-of-river project diverts only part of a river through a turbine without any flooding or need for reservoirs. Plutonic's run-of-river projects are also built along streams which contain few or no fish. Therefore, the environmental impacts are very low compared to traditional hydroelectric dams.
How will Plutonic Power's projects displace greenhouse gases? I thought that BC currently derives most of its electricity from hydroelectric power.
It is true that most of British Columbia's power is derived from large hydroelectric facilities. However, BC currently imports some of it's marginal electricity needs from the United States and Alberta. This imported electricity is used to cover approximately 15% of BC demand in 2006 and this is expected to increase in 2007. Most electricity generated in Alberta is from coal and natural gas, while a large portion of electricity produced in Washington State is generated from natural gas and nuclear. Therefore, by developing green power projects domestically, British Columbia reduces it's reliance on imported electricity generated from "brown" or non-renewable sources, thus offsetting the GHG emitted from these facilities.
How large is a run-of-river powerhouse?
One of the advantages of Plutonic's run-of-river projects is the low environmental footprint. A typical run-of-river powerhouse, such as the one to be built at East Toba River, has dimensions of approximately 25 meters x 37.5 meters (10,000 square feet). This is equivalent to the size of approximately four houses.
How long is the construction period for a run-of-river project?
Construction typically takes between 12 to 36 months, depending upon the size of the project. For example, it is expected that smaller projects will take 18 months to complete, while the larger East Toba River and Montrose Creek projects will take a full three years.
What skills are required in the construction of Plutonic's run-of-river projects?
Construction of the run-of-river projects require a wide variety of skills including: heavy equipment operators, welders, surveyors, linemen, carpenters, general labourers, rebar placers, steel fixers, bar busters, electricians, plumbers, administrative personnel civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, environmental & geotechnical engineers, technologists, architects, environmental scientists, fisheries biologists and loggers. There are huge opportunities for local employment.
How will a run-of-river project benefit my community?
In addition to the high level of employment involved in the construction of the projects, it is estimated that up to 15% of the capital costs are spent in the local community. For example, the East Toba River and Montrose Creek projects have an estimated capital cost of $450,000,000. In this case, over $65,000,000 could be spent in local communities. In addition, run-of-river projects are designed to operate for over 50 years, offering the local community long term employment opportunities. The local tax base also benefits from property and school taxes. In fact, a typical 50 MW run-of-river facility will pay over $1,000,000 a year in taxes to local and Provincial governments.
Will BC taxpayers have to pay for the construction of transmission lines for Plutonic Power's projects?
No. It is expected that transmission lines and interconnection costs will be paid for by the Company. In fact, Plutonic Power's projects will greatly add to the tax base of the Province through payment of water license fees, school taxes, property taxes and corporate taxes. Additionally, Plutonic's projects have the potential to add to the stability of BC's electrical infrastructure.
How do I invest in Plutonic Power Corporation?
Plutonic Power Corporation trades on the TSX Exchange under the trading symbol PCC. To buy shares in the company contact your local bank or financial advisor.
