Tory bill could restore local power to oppose wind, solar energy projects
Credit: By: The Canadian Press, www.brandonsun.com 28 November 2011 ~~
TORONTO – A Progressive Conservative is introducing legislation today that would restore local powers to oppose wind and solar energy projects.
Tory Todd Smith says his private member’s bill would give municipalities more say in such projects, which are being built over the objections of local residents.
He says the bill would remove a section of the Green Energy Act that stripped municipalities of their decision-making powers.
Smith says he’s hoping the New Democrats and some Liberals will support the bill, because many of the municipalities they represent are clamouring for the change.
Even if both opposition parties support the bill, it may never become law.
The minority Liberals still control which bills come up for third and final reading, and may decide to block it even if it passes second reading.
