Today the Energy Commission released a discussion paper: Charting Our Electricity Future. “In addition to researching the factors that impact our electricity supply, the Commission is consulting widely with Islanders,” said PEI Energy Commission Co-Chair David Arsenault. “Islanders can learn more about the factors that affect our electricity costs by reading the discussion paper.”

The discussion paper provides an overview of electricity in Prince Edward Island, outlines key issues that affect electricity costs in the province, and raises questions to be addressed in planning for the province’s electricity future. “We hope Islanders will read the paper, consider the issues, and share their views about how to address the challenges involved in securing an affordable and sustainable electricity supply,” said Commission Co-chair Mike O’Brien. “All feedback will shape the recommendations we present to government this fall.“

Islanders can provide their views online, through written submissions and in person. The Energy Commission will hold stakeholder presentations and public forums across the Island from February 22 through March 8. All sessions will be open to the media. For more details about the consultations and other ways to provide input, please visit www.peiec.ca.

The work of the Commission is a key component of the Prince Edward Island Energy Accord announced in November 2010. Once the research and consultation phases are complete, the Commission is expected to report to the provincial government by fall 2012.