I am writing in response to…

I am writing in response to the above noted posting, specifically regarding the proposed list of electricity projects which will be subject to the comprehensive environmental assessment (EA) requirements.

Ontario Power Generation has been directly involved in numerous environmental assessment undertakings in Ontario across a wide range of project types, including the Lower Mattagami River Project which was subject to a comprehensive EA (formerly known as an individual EA). Based on this experience, OPG has reviewed the Ministry of the Environments, Conservation and Parks (MECP) proposal to maintain the existing thresholds for electricity projects that would require a comprehensive environmental assessment (as per Ontario Regulation 116/01) and is of the opinion that no further changes need to be made at this point in time.

OPG supports that the proposed changes to the Environmental Assessment Act (EAA) related to EA Modernization are intended to match the potential environmental impact of a project to the level of study required while still maintaining strong environmental oversight and protecting Aboriginal and treaty rights.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment. I look forward to the implementation of the proposed changes EAA.

Feel free to contact me by email (edward.naval@opg.com) or by phone (416-231-4111 ext. 4137) should you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Ed Naval
Environmental Advisor
Ontario Power Generation