Columbia River -Revelstoke MLA urged people last month to comment on a proposed solar farm in the Rocky Mountain Trench. Comments are now closed on the proposal but Clovechok, who does not support it, has provided an update on social media.
“I have heard from hundreds of folks from Columbia River-Revelstoke and beyond who oppose the proposal for a solar farm on fragile grassland habitat in the Rocky Mountain Trench.
The message is loud and clear and I simply cannot support such a project. Thank you to all who took the time to comment online prior to the December 3 deadline.
This week I met with two principals at Enterprise Renewables and let them know that there is strong opposition from citizens and stakeholder groups.
While the proponents stated that the completed footprint will come in at less than 100 hectares, they did not indicate that they had explored alternative areas that will have less impact on habitat and SAR listed species.
Many people have said that while they support solar projects, we simply cannot sacrifice valuable habitat.
I suggested to Enterprise Renewables that they reach out to TECK Coal to determine if there is a possibility for them to partner and further develop the existing brownfield area at the Kimberley Sun Mine. In my mind this would be a win.
While this project is in very early investigative stages I will continue to monitor it closely and ensure that your voices are heard.”