(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
More than 734 public submissions signal strong resistance and growing calls for renewable alternatives
Public response to the proposed construction of what would be the world’s largest nuclear power plant in Port Hope is overwhelmingly negative, according to submissions received by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada.
As of midnight, last night, more than 734 comments and briefs from residents and organizations across Northumberland County and surrounding communities had been filed. Despite six months of promotional materials and provincial advertising highlighting the benefits of nuclear energy, early analysis of the submissions indicates that public support remains minimal.
A preliminary review of approximately 500 comments found only 10 in favour of the project.
The vast majority of respondents are urging decision-makers to reconsider the proposal and undertake a comprehensive assessment of safer, more affordable, and faster-to-deploy alternatives, particularly wind and solar energy. Many submissions emphasize that modern renewable systems, combined with battery storage, could meet future electricity needs without introducing the long-term risks associated with nuclear power.
Critics also note that the current decision-making process has not adequately considered cleaner energy options, nor demonstrated a clear necessity for a project of this scale. Community members are calling for a fuller evaluation of renewable solutions before advancing plans for a massive nuclear facility.
“The message from the public is clear,” said Ralph Torrie, “People want investments in energy sources that are safer, less expensive, and quicker to bring online — and they want those options meaningfully included in the assessment process.”
Further public engagement is expected as the impact assessment continues.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
