“As long as the government remains committed to its expensive nuclear plan, it will not be able to achieve the full potential of renewable power or fully spark green jobs.”

Last fall Minister Smitherman asked the Ontario Power Authority to increase its conservation and renewable energy targets, but the OPA has yet to report back.

“Electricity demand is falling so the only way for OPA to significantly increase green energy targets is to reduce nuclear energy and to date Smitherman has ruled that out,” said Tabuns.

Under the current system plan, no new wind energy will be brought on line after 2018 - when new nuclear reactors are expected to come on line.

Tabuns also raised concern about the unexpectedly high set back requirements for wind turbines.

“The Premier suggested all along that 550 meters was a sufficient set back to address health concerns,” said Tabuns.

“Today he tells us that even higher set backs will be required for farms with more than five turbines - perhaps up to one and a half kilometers. That is more than is required of new gas plants, and could significant reduce the development of wind power in Ontario.”

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