Initial Project Description (IPD) for the Pumped Storage Project
On February 24, TC Energy, submitted an Initial Project Description to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, formally initiating the federal Impact Assessment process. The Initial Project Description is an early stage document that outlines the proposed project, its purpose, key components, potential alternatives, and possible effects. SON Leadership and SON EO have reviewed and provided feedback on earlier drafts of the Initial Project Description.
On March 6, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada posted the Initial Project Description on the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry and has launched the first 30-day public comment period, anticipated to run until April 6. This is the first opportunity for the public and Indigenous Nations and groups to review the information submitted and provide comments directly to the Agency.
Key Messages for Members
- The Ontario Pumped Storage Project is now in the Planning Phase of the federal Impact Assessment process, which is the first of five phases and part of a multiyear review.
- The Impact Assessment is an independent, federal process led by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada.
- The purpose of the Impact Assessment process is to identify potential environmental, social, economic, and cultural effects of the project and to determine how adverse effects could be avoided, mitigated, or addressed before any federal decisions are made.
- Indigenous participation is central to the Impact Assessment process. Early input helps shape the scope of the assessment and identify key issues for further study.
- There will be multiple opportunities for engagement and feedback throughout the process, beyond this initial comment period.
- Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) conducts its own assessment of proposed projects in SON Territory to understand potential impacts on SON rights, lands, waters, and community.
Canadian Impact Assessment Registry page
