Report Focuses on Renewable Energy, Increased Competition

A second progress report has been filed by a committee struck to make recommendations on how to increase competition in the electricity market.

Robert Fournier, chair of the Electricity Marketplace Governance Committee, said this report stands out because of its attention to renewable energy.

"The work of the committee has been characterized by considerable productivity and much consensus. This report includes recommendations on the scope of the competitive market and the broad area of renewable sources of electricity," said Dr. Fournier. "Encouraging renewable sources of energy, such as wind power, will decrease our dependence on fossil fuels, promote a broader base of energy sources, and make it easier for small independent producers to connect and contribute to the existing energy system."

The report outlines 31 recommendations on four areas, including:
opening the market and to what extent; increasing renewable/green energy; creating guidelines for individuals (hobbyists/farmers) who operate renewable generation for their own purposes; and, encouraging businesses and households to take advantage of emerging energy efficiency measures.

The committee was formed in May 2002 as a result of Nova Scotia's Energy Strategy. Its mandate is to make recommendations to the minister of energy on the implementation, development, structure and future rules for Nova Scotia's electricity sector.

"Developing our diverse energy sources will contribute to a more prosperous economy," said Energy Minister Ernest Fage. "The committee has worked diligently to address many complex issues, and I look forward to receiving their final report. Government will formally address the recommendations at that time as part of the development of the new Energy Act."

Chaired by Dr. Fournier, a professor at Dalhousie University, the committee includes representatives from: Canadian Federation of Independent Business; Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters; Consumers Association of Canada; Electricity Consumers Alliance of Nova Scotia; Municipal Electric Utilities of Nova Scotia Co- operative; Nova Scotia Power Inc.; and Renewable Energy Industries of Nova Scotia. The committee also includes observers from the Association of Chambers of Commerce, the Nova Scotia Department of Energy and the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board.

A copy of the report can be obtained on the committee's Web site, www.gov.ns.ca/petro/energystrategy/emgc/ . The committee is expected to release its final report later in the spring.