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Nelson might soon have to cede its unique status as the only municipality in the West Kootenay that generates most of its own electricity.
The Village of Slocan received approval last week for a $10,000 grant from the Regional District of Central Kootenay to provide for a preliminary study on the development of a community-based renewable energy project on Springer Creek.
The hydroelectric project was something the community has wanted for some time, said Slocan Coun. and RDCK director Hillary Elliott.
One of the major factors for pursuing the project for Slocan was the fact the Village of Slocan has been aware of the need for economic diversity of some kind, said Elliott.
She said the impetus was to reduce the village’s dependence on the Springer Creek Forest Products’ mill located at the edge of the village.
“This idea was one that seemed viable for the whole community' benefit and would help in creating a self-sustainable community,” she said.
The grant form the RDCK will provide for a short-term increase in staffing to allow for the completion of the water licence application and the writing of the project proposal.
Elliott said the project writing could provide a template and best practices for future projects in the region.
The community owned, low-impact micro-hydro project is currently at its preliminary stages, with Nelson’s Selkirk Power doing the preliminary research on the viability and feasibility of the venture.
For their part, Slocan council and staff have been pursuing information, filling out the paperwork and planning consultations and studies that need to bring the idea forward, said Elliott.
The less than five mega watt project does not have any costs attached to it, said Elliott, while the Village continues to examine different options such as, partnerships opportunities and grants.
There will be full public consultation and meetings regarding the project as it moves along, said Elliott.
