Power producers welcome advancement of BC Hydro's Clean Call process

VANCOUVER , Nov. 17 /CNW/ - BC's Independent Power Producers Association today welcomed the advancement of BC Hydro's Clean Call with the selection of 13 projects to negotiate electricity purchase agreements along with 34 other projects that are still under consideration.

"We are pleased to see BC Hydro's Clean Call move forward," said Paul Kariya, Executive Director of the Independent Power Producers Association of BC. "This is another important step in positioning BC as a North American leader in clean energy and in the effort to tackle climate change, for the benefit of all British Columbians."

BC Hydro received a total of 68 proposals representing more than 17,000 gigawatt hours per year of electricity through the Clean Call, which began in June 2008 . Of the 68 proposals, 21 have been eliminated, 13 have been selected to negotiate electricity purchase agreements, and a further 34 will remain under consideration.

"The Clean Call will drive sustainable economic growth and create jobs while reducing our province's carbon footprint," said Kariya. "Many of these projects will deliver significant benefits and opportunities to local communities and First Nations."

The Independent Power Producers Association of BC represents 320 project developers and service providers in British Columbia's renewable energy sector. The role of IPPBC is to support the development and viability of an independent power industry that serves the public interest by providing clean, cost-effective electricity though the responsible development of electrical generation resources.

For further information: Michael Goehring, Cell: [phone], [email protected]