The cost of electricity on the coast of Labrador is the most expensive in the province and government’s announced plan today to potentially complement diesel generated energy with other sources does not go far enough, says Opposition Leader Yvonne Jones.

Jones was reacting to a study announced by government earlier today that will see the communities of Cartwright, Charlottetown, Hopedale, Makkovik, Mary’s Harbour, Nain and Port Hope Simpson participate in a review that will determine whether other alternative sources of energy can be used to complement diesel generation in the region.

“I am sure that this study may have some benefit in identifying the problems that exist with diesel generation on the coast of Labrador, but the people of our region want diesel replaced, not complemented,” said Ms. Jones. “Burning diesel to generate electricity is damaging to the environment and very costly. Our people and businesses pay the highest rates in the province for heat and electricity.

“There are several potential small scale hydro developments in our area that could serve the needs of the population on coastal Labrador. We have a road network that has removed much of the isolation factor we have faced in the past and this could permit a transmission grid to service these and surrounding communities. This should be the direction that government is heading; replacing the entire diesel generated system in favour of clean and renewable energy.

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