Vancouver, British Columbia-based NaiKun Wind Energy Group Inc. has been granted a provincial environmental assessment certificate from the British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) for its 396 MW offshore wind energy project in northwest British Columbia.
The NaiKun Wind project underwent a harmonized provincial/federal review led by the EAO, which concluded the project will have no significant environmental, social or health effects on the surrounding area. The federal government's decision on the environmental assessment application is expected in early 2010. The Haida Nation has also undertaken an environmental assessment of the project.
Environmental certification marks the culmination of over six years of extensive environmental studies, analysis and community consultation. As part of the process, NaiKun Wind has made numerous commitments that are carefully designed to maximize project benefits and minimize the risk of negative effects on the environment.
The project is expected to result in over C$400 million in direct expenditures in the province during construction, of which C$250 million will benefit North Coast communities, according to NaiKun.
SOURCE: NaiKun Wind Energy Group Inc.
