Clean energy agreements lead to new jobs in Mackenzie
VANCOUVER – BC Hydro and Conifex Timber are teaming up to generate clean, renewable bioenergy in Mackenzie. The companies today announced new agreements that will create 100 new jobs in the region, strengthen the local forest industry and add new clean energy to British Columbia's electricity mix.
Conifex will invest approximately $50 million to upgrade its existing power infrastructure to create a bioenergy facility with a 36-megawatt steam turbine. The fuel will be sourced from the residuals produced at Conifex's lumber manufacturing and log harvesting operations.
"Provincially, everyone will benefit from the additional clean electricity, while investments in green energy and B.C.'s resource sector create employment opportunities and build economic strength in rural communities," said Energy and Mines Minister Rich Coleman. "In Mackenzie, these agreements will benefit families and businesses directly, with 80 new jobs during construction and more than 20 new jobs upon completion."
"Innovation and creativity are key to keeping good quality jobs in B.C. and ensuring the economic advancement of our communities," said Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation. "This clean energy agreement will provide additional benefits for our region and is great news for the community of Mackenzie."
Conifex is expected to supply, a minimum of 200 gigawatt hours of competitively-priced, clean electricity each year to B.C.'s electrical grid – enough energy to power more than 18,000 homes annually. In addition, through a conservation incentive program, Conifex will significantly reduce the region's electricity load requirements by generating 30 gigawatt hours of electricity annually to offset the energy demand of its Mackenzie sawmills.
"Our unique partnership with Conifex is an example of how innovation can help us meet our clean energy goals," said Dave Cobb, BC Hydro president and CEO. "We are pleased to have been able to work with Conifex to provide an integrated solution that not only meets their energy needs but also provides for clean, reliable electricity for the rest of B.C."
Energy production and load displacement are expected to begin late in 2012, per the terms of the electricity purchase and load displacement agreements. BC Hydro will submit the electricity purchase agreement to the British Columbia Utilities Commission for review. Additional details about the project will be available in BC Hydro's filing to the commission.
About BC Hydro
Fifty years ago, British Columbians turned to BC Hydro to build the clean electricity system they count on to power B.C.'s economy, create jobs in every region, and keep the lights on. Now, BC Hydro is building again for the next 50 years. B.C. continues to grow and so has the need for more electricity. That's why BC Hydro is building, renewing, and encouraging conservation to meet today's needs and those of future generations. In 2011, BC Hydro is celebrating 50 years of providing power for British Columbians, and inviting them to help prepare for the next 50 years.
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