I would like to express my…

I would like to express my support for the continuing role of nuclear power in Ontario's Long Term Energy Plan. In particular I strongly support refurbishment of the 4 reactors at Darlington and remaining 6 reactors at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station.

Two serious concerns of mine, like many Ontarians, are the availability of quality jobs and the price of energy.

I am a relatively recent graduate and have witnessed a truly disturbing number of my classmates and friends having difficulties finding quality, long term jobs. Many have gone back to school or have had to make do with short term contract jobs here and there with little to no long term promise. One thing I can say with certainty is that Ontario's nuclear operating companies (OPG and Bruce Power) as well as their suppliers do offer long term, career-worthy employment opportunities. The vast majority of these companies are also based in Ontario which ensures that the skills that Ontario invests in via funding for schools are kept in Ontario and are able to benefit the province.

The price of energy is of concern because it not only affects the economic well being of families, it also affects the cost of manufacturing goods in Ontario. More expensive power means higher operating costs for factories either leading to more expensive goods (which further stretch the budget of families) or relocation of manufacturing to places where power is cheaper. Nuclear provides a reliable baseload at lower than the average cost of electricity which helps keep electricity costs low.

Lastly, there are several asthma sufferers in my family (including myself) who are concerned about air quality. Smog days present a serious health risk to anyone with respiratory issues which is why I support Ontario's decision to phase out coal. However I am still concerned about the emissions of vehicles and am hoping to see the transition towards plug in hybrid and full electric vehicles. However this only results in an improvement in air quality if the generating stations powering the grid do not pollute the air. Otherwise the emissions are simply being relocated. Since nuclear power does not result in the emission of airbourne pollutants, maintaining our nuclear stations will allow Ontarians to reap the benefits of electric vehicles through cleaner air. Furthermore, since nuclear power does not generate greenhouse gases, it will not jeopardize our climate change targets.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my input,

Curtis McEwan, P.Eng.

[Original Comment ID: 195854]