Bruce Power is launching a community conversation about the company’s future role in Ontario’s electricity system to advance a multi-year investment plan announced last December.
“We recognize there is a great deal of community interest in what we’re doing and we want to ensure we’re talking with residents about our plans every step of the way,” said James Scongack, Bruce Power’s Vice-President, Corporate Affairs. “We intend to engage the public and the community in a discussion about our long-term plans - including refurbishment - to gather input and also provide the right information.”
Today, Bruce Power released a comprehensive community report entitled ‘Bruce Power’s Role in Ontario: The Road Ahead – Our Relicencing and Environmental Activities', which provides an in-depth overview and outlines the company’s long-term investment program, key decision-points and the public engagement opportunities.
“We look at this as an ideal opportunity to ensure we are in tune with the public and surrounding communities,” Scongack said. “While we are working toward a renewal of our operating licence and moving forward with our long-term plans, we also have to work each and every day to maintain public confidence by demonstrating an unwavering commitment to safety, reliability and excellence in everything we do.”
Starting in September, the company will host an eight-month series of telephone town-hall meetings and community workshops to share information and obtain feedback about its plans. The summer bus tour program at the Visitors’ Centre will also be expanded year-round to accommodate prearranged community groups.
Later in the year, polls will be conducted to help determine what is of interest to members of the public and how information is best delivered. New community engagement tools will also be introduced on the popular Bruce Power iPhone and iPad apps.
To allow for the refurbishment of Unit 6 to begin in 2020 as scheduled, Bruce Power will apply for a 10-year renewal of its existing operating licence in 2017.
