The government of Newfoundland and Labrador has postponed its decision on the ambitious wind energy project proposed by World Energy GH2, stating that the environmental assessment provided requires additional information. This extensive project, championed by John Risley’s corporation, plans to erect over 328 wind turbines in Port au Port Peninsula and Codroy Valley, along with establishing a hydrogen-ammonia production facility in the western part of the province.
While a decision was initially expected on Tuesday, the Department of Environment and Climate Change announced that an amended environmental impact statement (EIS) must be submitted. Minister Bernard Davis pointed out the need for detailed information that is “clear, concise, and focused,” highlighting the necessity for accuracy in the legislative environmental assessment process.
The minister’s letter to Sean Leet, CEO of World Energy GH2, outlines specific areas needing further elucidation, including water resource management, baseline environmental data, assessment of cumulative impacts, and comprehensive mitigation and emergency protocols.
Following the submission of the revised EIS, the government will open a 50-day period for public commentary, with a final decision to be made within 70 days of the received amendment. This step ensures the community and interested stakeholders have a voice in the process and that all aspects of the project are carefully considered.
Assistant Professor Camille Ouellet Dallaire from Memorial University has expressed approval of the government’s request for more details, viewing it as a response to previous concerns over the lack of specificity in the impact statement.
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