THUNDER BAY – Horizon Wind Inc. have announced that findings of the Draft Environmental Assessment Report in relation to the Big Thunder Wind Park will be released to the public on May 28th, 2010. Project Coordinator Nhung Nguyen presented the executive summary that highlighted excerpts of the report earlier today.
Nguyen says; “The 700 page report documents over two years of studies and consultations with government agencies, stakeholders and members of the public. Seventeen reports are included, focusing on our construction and operation activities, what impacts we may have, and how we plan to mitigate those impacts. This is to ensure the protection of the natural environment and public health and safety.”
Twenty government agencies were consulted at a local provincial and federal level.
The Environmental Assessment Report is mandatory under the Renewable Energy Approval Regulation and the Green Energy and Green Economy Act. The report will be made available to the public for sixty days at various locations in the city, and will be available to view on-line: www.bigthunderwindpower.ca
Horizon Wind Inc. CEO and President Anthony Zwig says; “With the implementation of well-known and proven mitigation measures, the project, in general will have a positive effect on the environment. Horizon Wind is glad to play our role in providing clean sustainable power for today and future generations in Ontario”.
The EA Report was conducted by M.K. Ince and Associates Ltd. – a group that specializes in renewable energy and environmental consulting.
The public is encouraged to review the report and submit any comments or concerns to Horizon Wind. Following the two month review, Horizon will then submit a Renewable Energy Approval (REA) application to the Ministry of Environment.
Today Horizon Wind Inc. also announced details of two public open houses that will be hosted by the wind company in August of 2010. The events will allow residents to provide final feedback on the proposed Big Thunder Wind Park project.