VICTORIA, B.C. – Statement from BC Green MLA for West Vancouver–Sea to Sky Jeremy Valeriote on voting against Bill 31, the Energy Statutes Amendments Act:
“Throughout the course of Bill 31’s progression through this House, the BC Greens proposed numerous amendments that would have improved the legislation—including measures to improve transparency and accountability; allow for open, clear criteria for allocation of electricity by a public utility; and, add heavy oil and bitumen pipelines to the list of rationed industries. The Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions rejected every single one. Now, Bill 31 falls short of providing the assurances British Columbians and BC Hydro ratepayers deserve.”
“The BC Greens want British Columbians to access this province’s clean energy advantage. However, the Premier and Minister have made it clear that the North Coast Transmission Line is being advanced primarily as a public subsidy for LNG projects, rather than as a long-term investment in BC’s clean energy future.”
“In addition, First Nations along Phase 3 of the North Coast Transmission Line have not been properly engaged or consulted. First Nations co-ownership should not be offered as a take-it or leave-it proposition for a project a government intends to push through against their wishes.”
“The bill also purports to establish an Electricity Allocation Framework, yet it only applies to some hand-picked sectors, and leaves all critical details to be set in regulation, behind closed doors by Cabinet. A real electricity allocation framework makes sure every kilowatt can be considered for its economic, social, environmental implications in the highest public interest, with climate considerations given the weight they deserve. With Bill 31 passed, now the government can use its discretion—with influence from lobbyists or industry pressures—on the decisions of who gets power and who doesn’t without any independent oversight.”
“Compounding this, this legislation now gives both Cabinet and BC Hydro even more authority at a time when BC Hydro’s track record on cost control raises serious concerns.”
“For these reasons, the BC Greens did not support Bill 31.”
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Media contact
Ryan Hook
Press Secretary
BC Green Caucus
+1 250-882-6187 | ryan.hook@leg.bc.ca