Canadian News

摘要

Project developer Plutonic Power Corp. signed an agreement with the Sechelt First Nation advancing construction of grid facilities for Plutonic's 196-MW East Toba River Montrose Creek hydroelectric project in British Columbia. The long-term impact benefit agreement also outlines how Plutonic and the native community will work together on future energy project development on Sechelt lands. "Through this agreement we hope not only to enable and empower the Sechelt community through training and employment, but we also hope to build a legacy of renewable, reliable, made-in-B.C. clean energy for the next generation of the Sechelt to share with the people of B.C., energy that reduces our reliance on non-renewable imported power," Plutonic Chief Executive Officer Donald Mclnnes said. The agreement facilitates development of the transmission infrastructure and construction of the Saltery Bay substation on Sechelt territory as part of the C$660 million (US$670 million) hydro project, under construction northwest of Vancouver. Operation of the 123-MW East Toba site is scheduled by mid-2010, and 73-MW Montrose by late 2010. In return for Sechelt leaders' support of the project, Plutonic pledged continuing respect for Sechelt rights and title to the transmission line and substation area. The developer also is to make payments to the Sechelts for the life of the project. Additionally, Plutonic is to offer employment and training for Sechelt members and opportunities for Sechelt companies in land clearing and construction of the substation. The agreement also establishes a framework for partnerships on future development opportunities.