Government launches Energy Plan discussion paper and consultations

Energy supply and demand issues are front and centre on the international stage and Newfoundland and Labrador has never been more strategically positioned in terms of our energy potential. Premier Danny Williams and Ed Byrne, Minister of Natural Resources, released a discussion paper today that will be the basis of an extensive consultation process on the development of a comprehensive Energy Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador.

"We have raised the awareness globally of the potential of our significant sources of energy, and our goal is to become an energy warehouse," said Premier Williams. "The challenge before us is harnessing those opportunities for the greater good of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is, therefore, critical that we have a clearly defined plan for the future and identify the best policy direction for the development and use of our province�s resources. That is why we are now embarking on the most aggressive and comprehensive energy policy review and development ever undertaken in this province."

Premier Williams said the development of an Energy Plan will assist government in taking strategic advantage of the province�s natural abundance of hydro-electricity, petroleum and alternative energy sources.

"In Our Blueprint for the Future we were very clear in our intention to pursue a progressive energy policy for the province," said Premier Williams. "This policy will be built on securing, developing and making available sources of energy to support the economic and social well-being of our people. As well, we will pursue market opportunities to sell our surplus energy on terms that will mean optimal benefits for the province and our people."

The issues raised in the discussion paper are presented following various themes and include: Security of Supply; Fossil Fuel Supply and Demand; Electricity Supply and Demand; Alternative Energy and Energy Conservation; Environment and Sustainable Development; Economic and Regional Development; Oil and Gas Exploration and Development; Energy Exports; and, Energy Sector Organization.

Minister Byrne said the consultation process is designed to gather input from Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, interested groups and industry stakeholders. It will help to raise awareness of the importance of the energy sector to the economy and the principal energy issues facing the province.

"The consultation process will be a critical component in the development of our energy plan, a plan that over the long-term achieves sustainability and economic growth for our people and communities," said Minister Byrne. "It will be an opportunity to have a full and frank discussion about energy in this province. I encourage everyone�s participation in this initiative of government and I look forward to meeting with stakeholders around the province during the public consultation process."

The public consultation process will begin in early 2006 providing enough time for the public to review the discussion document released today. The dates and locations of those public meetings will be announced at a later date.

Individuals interested in making a contribution to this consultation process are encouraged to visit the Energy Plan Web site at www.gov.nl.ca/energyplan to access the discussion paper, obtain announcements as to the schedule for the public meetings being held in communities around the province and to offer their feedback and comment. Individuals can call 1-866-440-4044 or e-mail energyplan@gov.nl.ca to request a hard copy of the discussion paper or seek further information.

Media contact:

Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960, 690-5500, elizabethmatthews@gov.nl.ca
Carmel Turpin, Natural Resources, (709) 729-5282 or 685-4624

2005 11 10        12:40 p.m.