Our submission outlines initial comments on the BC Energy Regulator's (BCER) draft policy intentions for the regulations of renewable energy projects under the Renewable Energy Projects (Streamlined Permitting) Act, SBC 2025, c. 12 (REPSPA).
West Coast is concerned that the removal of energy projects from established regulatory regimes for the sake of expediency may result in the erosion of longstanding safeguards against adverse environmental effects, unduly limit opportunities for public participation, and increase the risk of the projects interfering with the rights of Indigenous peoples. We are also concerned that the fast-tracking of renewables will be used to support and fast-track the expansion of the LNG industry, undermining BC’s climate goals. We encourage BCER to ensure that the new regulatory process it puts in place for these projects does not sacrifice these key values for the sake of increased efficiency.
Read our blog, "BC Bill 14: Eroding Environmental Safeguards to Power Industrial Development."