The Multi-Municipal Energy Working Group (MMEWG) is reaching out to municipalities across to region offering membership.
This comes in response to the Independent Electricity System Operator issuing a request for proposal for an additional 5,000 megawatts of capacity in battery energy storage systems.
This is expected to include a large number of wind turbine proposals and municipalities are being invited to the group which will provide information, expert advice and collaborated advocacy.
The group says there is a need to conduct research, advocate and understand the implications of these proposals to provide the measures necessary for the health, safety and well-being of people in Grey and Bruce.
The MMEWG says, “as the province continues to look at ways to increase capacity and ensure sufficient supply to support the anticipated future electricity needs, new energy generation and storage facilities are being proposed throughout the province. With these proposals, comes another wave of growing concern, similar to what was seen with the introduction of industrial wind turbines. In response to the changes in the industry, the MMEWG has adjusted its mandate to include all forms of energy generation and storage infrastructure, allowing the work of the group to address a broader area of concern.”
The MMEWG is made up of elected officials and residents and was originally formed in 2010 as a group focused on wind turbines following the rising concerns of safety, health affects and best practises.
The group has continued to study, research and advocate for stronger measures to be put in place to combat the concerns.
Bruce and Grey Counties heard from the MMEWG in December on what municipalities should consider when looking at allowing battery storage facilities.
- Bruce County Hears From Multi-Municipal Energy Working Group About Battery Storage Facilities
- Grey County Councillors Briefed On Risks Of Battery Energy Storage Facilities
Municipalities like South Bruce Peninsula and West Grey will be reviewing the request to join the group.
