nuclear-news

The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station would close this summer if the Green Party of Ontario formed a government, according to leader Mike Schreiner.

Speaking on CBC Radio’s Ontario Today, Schreiner said while 1,900 jobs would be lost if the plant closed, others could be created by developing the plant’s prime waterfront property.

The party would not close the Bruce or Darlington nuclear generating stations, Schreiner said.

“There is no way we can shut down our nuclear plants tomorrow. It’s just unrealistic because (nuclear) produces 70 per cent of our power,” Schreiner said, though the party does oppose rebuilding such facilities.

The Liberals and the Progressive Conservatives have also said they would close the Pickering plant, but not until 2024. Like the Greens, the NDP has vowed to start decommissioning it this year.

Schreiner would also turn to Quebec to meet more of Ontario’s electricity needs. Cheap power from Quebec would help bring down hydro prices for consumers, he said.

The savings from both the plant closure and cheaper power from the neighbouring province would add up to $1 billion, Schreiner said, which could then be invested in making homes and businesses more energy efficient, Schreiner said.

“Nobody should have to choose between putting food on the table (and) paying their electricity bill,” Schreiner said.

The party would move Ontario toward a “clean economy” with technologies like electric vehicles and water conservation technology………..http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/green-party-leader-proposes-buying-hydro-quebec-1.4682582