Sky view of site clearing WPD Canada location (Photo: submitted)
An entrance permit has been granted by Prince Edward County to WPD White Pines.
County Mayor Robert Quaiff tells Quinte News the municipality had no choice but to provide the company with the permit, for their work to construct nine turbines on the south shores of Prince Edward.
He says the Road Users Agreement was clear about what they could and could not do before October 15th.
Quaiff says there is no communication with the company.
He says culverts have been delivered to the site, and they are clearing the site ahead of construction.
He says they are also applying for two permits, one to adjust power in the lines, and whether or not those lines are above or below ground.
Meantime WPD Kevin Surette replied to Mayor Quaiff’s comments.
The Renewable Energy Approval (REA) contains the provisions for construction periods. The REA allows for construction prior to October 15th in Blanding’s Turtle habitat, provided we comply with certain restrictions to ensure the protection of Blanding’s Turtles that may be present; however, we are not currently conducting work in these areas. The majority of the project site does not contain Blanding’s Turtle habitat and is therefore not subject to the restricted period outlined in the REA.
Secondly, there is regular back-and-forth communication between WPD staff and Prince Edward County staff. We are also providing periodic updates to both the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) and the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO).
Finally, as far as I am aware, there are no applications for lines above ground. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the lines will remain underground as originally planned.
