SGB’sMessage
TC Energy’s proposed pumped storage project is not an environmentally responsible solution for Ontario.
TCE’s Message
The project’s zero emission footprint makes it an environmentally responsible energy solution for Ontario that will also help Canada reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The location of the facility on the Niagara Escarpment and in Georgian Bay will result in significant environmental harm to both Georgian Bay as well as to the Niagara Escarpment (a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve). This harm will be caused both during the construction of the facility as well as during the operation of the facility.
I. Environmental harm caused by the construction would include:
a. 500 acres of Niagara Escarpment land clearcut to build:
- Water intake/outfall pipes;
- Underground powerhouse;
- High Voltage underwater transmission lines from Meaford to Wasaga Beach and above ground from Wasaga Beach to Staynor.
(Source: https://www.ontariopumpedstorage.com/siteassets/about/design/map/images/reservoirrockfill.jpg)
b. Trucks going to and from the construction site along 7th Line and GR 112 resulting in an estimated 1,000,000 tonne increase in C02 emissions and other airborne contaminants.
II. Environmental harm caused by the operation of the facility would include:
daily pumping and flushing of 23 million cubic meters (23 billion litres) of Georgian Bay water will kill millions of fish, disrupt the aquatic ecosystem and shoreline, and cause water turbidity.
