BC Hyrdo Agrees to Meet with Atlantic Power

The City of Williams Lake Delegation’s trip to Vancouver Island has been canceled due to a letter from the Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, Adrian Dix.

After weeks of discussions and letters, there is a glimmer of progression for a new deal for Atlantic Power that could keep the plant operational.

“We understand the important role Atlantic Power’s Williams Lake facility has played in your community,” Minister Dix says in his letter. “We have asked BC Hydro to engage in an additional discussion with Atlantic Power in an effort to determine whether the plant owners can operate the facility in a manner that would ensure it can meet its next four years of contractual obligations.”

Last year, Premier David Eby held a remote conference with the Williams Lake Mayor and Council to promise to find ways to keep the plant open. Mayor Surinderpal Rathor feels this is finally a sign that the Premier is making good on his promise.

“I feel this is a win win situation between both parties,” Mayor Rathor says. “Our mission was to get BC Hydro to get to the table and have a discussion with Atlantic Power. I feel we accomplished that goal.”

As a result of the Letter, the City of Williams Lake Delegation that was set to fly to Victoria tomorrow has been cancelled. The delegation would have included the mayor, a councillor, First Nations leaders, community leaders and union representatives.

Atlantic Power’s plant in Williams Lake serves as one of the City’s critical economic drivers, employing approximately 30 full-time jobs. As well as a connection for local businesses, inlcuding ones that First Nations owned.

“This is a step in the right direction. We accomplished what we wanted to accomplish, and we did it without spending thousands of dollars of the taxpayer’s money,” says Rathor.

“I want to say thanks to the Ministry, the provincial government, and all the stakeholders involved; for holding their horses and letting the process take place.”