News Release - July 28, 2009

VICTORIA - The B.C. Utilities Commission's decision to reject the B.C. Liberal plan for more private power is good news for British Columbians concerned about higher electricity rates and for the environment, says Opposition energy critic John Horgan.

Horgan said today's decision backs the Official Opposition's call for a moratorium on private power projects until we have a better understanding of our long-term energy needs.

"The BCUC has quite rightly rejected Premier Campbell's arguments that these power projects will benefit British Columbians in any way," said Horgan, the MLA for Juan de Fuca.

"This decision is a victory for those who believe that the province's resources should be used for the benefit all British Columbians, not just for friends and donors of the B.C. Liberals."

Horgan called on the Campbell government to recognize the decision as an opportunity to engage in a meaningful discussion about our long-term energy needs.

"The commission also found that B.C. Hydro's conservation measures are inadequate. This decision translates into a failing grade for the B.C. Liberal energy plan."

Carole James and the Official Opposition have been calling for a moratorium on all new private power projects to ensure that they meet environmental standards, are done in consultation with local communities and first nations, and fit with the energy needs of the province.

"Independent power projects that use B.C.'s rivers to create power for export to California for the benefit of a few corporations are not in the public interest," said Horgan. "Especially when they will result in skyrocketing electricity rates for B.C. families."

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Contact: Tim Renneberg, 250-361-6314 or 250-356-0592