February 26, 2014
Saskatchewan

South Qu’Appelle wind energy debate heats up

By Mike McKinnon, Reporter | Global News | February 25, 2014 | globalnews.ca

MCLEAN, SK – The divide among residents in the R.M. of South Qu’Appelle is growing over wind energy.

Supporters and opponents of wind turbine development in the region butted heads at a public meeting in the village of McLean on Tuesday night.

Critics cite land rights and health concerns, while also questioning if residents are being provided enough information.

“The main concern I had is the lack of transparency on how the decision is being made and the progress,” said Susan Kalcsits, a resident who opposes wind turbines.

Some residents have already signed on with Renewable Energy Systems, the American company that has expressed interest in developing wind turbines in the area.

“I can’t find any health issues. I didn’t have any concerns that way,” said Curtis Wass, a landowner near McLean. “If it goes through, there would be some profit, some to be made for me, but I also like the idea of the amount of money that could go toward the RM.”

Wass has heard that amount could exceed $500,000 annually.

Jeannie DesRocher, the R.M. of South Qu’Appelle reeve, says council will decide its stance on wind turbine development on March 5.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/02/26/south-quappelle-wind-energy-debate-heats-up/