WILLIAMS LAKE – An agreement has been reached by Atlantic Power, BC Hydro and the Province regarding the operation of the Northwest Energy (NW Energy) biomass facility in Williams Lake.
A shortage of cost-effective fibre, which is required to burn as fuel to create electricity was the cause Northwest Energy, Atlantic Power’s facility demise. BC Hydro and the Province have offered several recommendations for optimizing operations regarding sourcing fibre and managing cost-effective fuel.
BC Hydro has negotiated an agreement that will keep the facility operating into the future,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “This biomass facility supports important jobs and provides economic benefits to Williams Lake and the surrounding community, and generates clean, firm electricity that we need to power homes and businesses across British Columbia and reduce carbon emissions.”
Atlantic Power has rescinded its termination notice for the NW Energy Electricity Purchase Agreement with BC Hydro. The NW Energy facility will continue to operate for the remaining term of the agreement. This decision is crucial in maintaining the facility’s role in benefiting the local economy and in providing clean and reliable energy for the province, especially during the winter months.
“We are pleased with this solution that will see Atlantic Power continue to operate its NW Energy facility in Williams Lake,” said Chris O’Riley, President and CEO of BC Hydro. “We appreciate the ongoing efforts of the working group and look forward to continuing our relationship with Atlantic Power.”
The NW Energy biomass facility has been an important part of the energy landscape in Williams Lake since the early 1990s, contributing to the local economy and providing employment opportunities. The facility’s ongoing operation will continue to support Williams Lake and the surrounding communities, including local First Nations such as Tŝideldel First Nation and Williams Lake First Nation.
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