Building a Safer, More Affordable Energy Future for Our Community

I am writing to express concern about the proposed New Nuclear Project at Wesleyville and to urge the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) to more thoroughly evaluate lower-cost, lower-risk clean energy alternatives.

Evidence provided by the Ontario Clean Air Alliance highlights that Ontario already has access to more affordable and scalable clean energy options. Recent procurements by the Independent Electricity System Operator show that wind and solar energy are significantly cheaper than new nuclear generation, and when combined with energy storage, can provide reliable electricity at a lower cost.

In addition to cost concerns, the proposed nuclear project presents long-term risks related to radioactive waste management. As outlined by the Nuclear Waste Management Organization, nuclear waste must be safely isolated from people and the environment for extremely long timeframes, yet there is still no fully operational long-term disposal solution for high-level nuclear fuel anywhere in the world. This raises serious intergenerational and environmental concerns.

Given these factors, it is not sufficient to accept the proponent’s assertion that there are no feasible alternatives. A robust impact assessment must evaluate whether Ontario’s electricity needs can be met through a combination of energy efficiency, demand management, wind and solar generation, energy storage technologies, and existing low-impact resources such as hydroelectric power.

Our community deserves energy solutions that are safe, cost-effective, and built to strengthen—not burden—local resilience over time. Investing in flexible, low-risk clean energy options today helps ensure our community remains affordable, livable, and environmentally responsible for decades to come.

I strongly encourage the IAAC to fully assess these alternatives before advancing a project of this scale and consequence.

Sincerely,

Rebecca Babcock