Society of Professional Engineers and Associates support government's direction but want commitment for AECL designed reactors
Attention: Assignment Editor, Business/Financial Editor, Energy Editor, News Editor, Government/Political Affairs Editor
MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO, MEDIA ADVISORY--(Marketwire - Nov. 23, 2010) - The Society of Professional Engineers and Associates (SPEA) welcomes the Ontario government's commitment to nuclear power as part of the power supply mix. "In releasing its Long Term Energy Plan, the government correctly recognized the importance nuclear energy plays in Ontario," said Dr. Michael Ivanco, Vice President of SPEA.
"Nuclear power provides Ontario homes and businesses with safe, reliable and cost effective power," Ivanco pointed out. "Currently the Pickering, Darlington and Bruce nuclear plants generate over half of Ontario's power. They are a source of clean, greenhouse-gas emission-free energy and are the backbone of Ontario's energy system."
"While Ontario's power supply mix calls on more renewable energy and conservation, nuclear must play a significant role in meeting our energy needs," said Ivanco. "The government will need to replace aging reactors and CANDU reactors are the best choice for that role. They are Ontario designed, built and operated and support 30,000 private sector high tech jobs. They are the perfect choice for our future."
The federal government is currently reviewing offers for the purchase of Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL) the designers of CANDU. The decision may have a significant impact on the future of CANDU technology. "We call on the Ontario government to continue raising the issue of AECL with the federal government and to seek a made in Ontario solution that will preserve jobs and technology," said Ivanco. "All other supply mix components are Ontario based, nuclear should be too."
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The Society of Professional Engineers and Associates (SPEA) represents engineers, scientists, technologists and technicians employed at AECL. SPEA members collectively represent the majority of Canada's nuclear power design expertise.
SPOKESPEOPLE AVAILABLE FOR COMMENT:
Dr. Michael Ivanco (English)
Marius A. Vartolomei (French)
Contact Michelle Duncan
416-427-3525 (cell)
/For further information: Michelle Duncan
416-427-3525 (cell)/
IN: ENERGY, LABOUR, POLITICS, TECHNOLOGY
For more information, please contact
Michelle Duncan, External Relations, Society of Professional Engineers and Associates
Primary Phone: 416-427-3525
Secondary Phone: 905-823-3606
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