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Follow Plutonic on Facebook| Thu Sep 10, 2009 Renewable energy pays off in many ways - Vancouver Sun Publisher: Vancouver Sun Author: Harvie Campbell | |
| Last month's speech from the throne re-established British Columbia's commitment to leading other jurisdictions towards a renewable energy future and to embracing all of the opportunity that goes along with it. Now more than ever, with the rising cost and price volatility of non-renewables and the increasing importance of domestic energy security, this commitment calls for timely action. As we move forward, there will be significant environmental and economic opportunities. Internationally, countries that are embracing renewable energy options are creating jobs and economic diversification. Germany created 250,000 direct jobs in renewable energy in less than four years. In the United States during 2007-08, more than 50 wind energy manufacturing facilities were opened, expanded or announced, adding 14,000 full-time employees. The opportunities for British Columbia can be just as lucrative. The provincial government's energy plan and climate change initiatives are important driving forces in creating positive momentum for clean energy development across B.C. The renewable energy sector now represents nine per cent of supply, with 45 operating projects, over $2 billion in invested capital and more than 1,100 direct jobs in the sector. BC Hydro's most recent clean power call saw projects equalling $15 billion in potential investment and creating 5,000 direct construction jobs brought forward by the independent power sector. The reaffirmation of this vision in the speech from the throne was an important step in moving B.C.'s energy plan from vision to reality. The speech left little doubt about the province's commitment to clean energy: "B.C.'s multiple sources of clean, renewable energy are far preferable to reliance on other dirtier forms of power." The independent power producers of British Columbia support the government vision to reduce our reliance on dirtier forms of power and invest in a cleaner future. The provincial government clearly recognizes B.C. has the resources and opportunity to become a world leader in clean energy generation. B.C. can continue to generate revenue and create jobs by focusing first on energy self-sufficiency and then exporting clean energy to our neighbours. It seems difficult to argue with the choice of clean energy -- run-of-river, wind, solar, wave, tidal, biomass and geothermal -- over dams, coal-fired and gas-fired sources. Yet while many thoughtful environmentalists such as David Suzuki and Tzeporah Berman of PowerUp Canada support the transition to clean energy, there is well-organized opposition to the independent developer's role in building and operating renewable energy projects. The environmental benefits of clean energy sources have already been thoroughly documented -- zero greenhouse gas emissions and little or no pollution. At a time when B.C.'s energy demand is expected to increase by 25 to 45 per cent over the next 20 years (and conservation will only fill 50 per cent of that gap), it makes sense to start developing cost-effective and sustainable sources of energy today. When the critical need to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change is added, the effort acquires even greater urgency. Through its renewed commitment to clean energy and its recognition that independent power producers are part of the solution, the province is creating an environment that allows the private sector to carry a share of the significant risks associated with clean energy startups, making this development phase as affordable as possible. B.C.'s energy plan is a model for jurisdictions around the world looking for a sustainable future. The government's renewed commitment to move forward in its implementation demonstrates leadership in long-term clean energy opportunities. | |
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