|
Energy Alternatives to the Hydro-Quebec Power Project |
|
|
|
Chief Josie Jimiken of Nemaska, one of the three affected Cree communities in James Bay, has attempted to persuade Hydro-Quebec to develop wind power rather than destroy the Rupert River.
The Crees have worked with experienced wind farm developers to plan a $3-billion wind-energy project to be constructed on Cree territory near existing Hydro-Quebec transmission lines. The project would generate 1,650 megawatts of wind power with 1,100 windmills. The Cree have also been exploring “run of river” small turbine technology and wind-to-hydrogen technology to provide residual production capacity.
“The Rupert Diversion and EM1A projects combined will produce less than 900 megawatts,” said Jimiken. “But Hydro-Quebec refuses to consider a wind power alternative that would have produced substantially more energy than the Rupert River diversion, but this was concealed by Hydro-Québec at the public hearings so the commissioners could not compare the alternatives.”
James Bay territory has been shown to be particularly appropriate for wind power development with steady winds blowing across the bay onto the eastern shores. Jimiken said wind power would provide technical training and jobs for Cree, a perpetual fiscal benefit, and would not damage the land upon which their culture depends.
|
