WHEREAS the Province of British Columbia is committed to ensuring that 90 percent of British Columbias electricity generation comes from clean or renewable resources in purchasing new energy from Clean Renewable Energy Projects CREPs; AND WHEREAS the local region has an opportunity to derive long-term benefits from Clean Renewable Energy Projects: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request the Province of British Columbia to include local governments as an equity partner to ensure that the local communities continue to share in the longer-term benefits of Clean Renewable Energy Projects in the Province of British Columbia.
Ministry of Energy Mines The Province is not prepared to require local government equity in power projects, but encourages communities to investigate opportunities and partnerships in these projects. Local governments are already developing their own clean energy projects like the District of Lake Countrys Eldorado Reservoir Hydroelectric project. Others are partnering on clean energy projects like the China Creek Hydroelectric Project developed by the Hupacasath First Nation, Synex Energy, the Ucluelet First Nation and the City of Port Alberni Upnit Power Limited Partnership. Clean, renewable energy projects, under development and in operation, contribute to local economic development across British Columbia providing direct and indirect jobs. Clean energy projects generate tax revenue for all levels of government. These projects help to fund vital social services such as health care and education and support families right across the province.