Local organizations and dignitaries are excited about the prospect of new power generation at the former Lambton Generating Station (LGS) site in Courtright.
Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce announced a $500,000 investment on Tuesday for St. Clair Township to begin the consultation process.
Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership CEO Matthew Slotwinski said the funding commitment suggests the region is on the path for "incredible economic opportunity."
"Energy security is massive when it comes to facilitating future economic growth, alongside what facility might come to fruition here. But most importantly, we need to look towards the jobs that can be created, long-term construction jobs and permanent jobs that may result from the eventual facility," Slotwinski said. "I believe Sarnia-Lambton should be supportive of all forms of potential energy and the engagement process with the community is going to be a significant next step."
Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce Interim CEO Steve Crozier agreed that a project like this would be "massive" for the area and for small businesses.
"You start off with, once this is complete, a large number of high-paying, good-quality jobs, which that money just trickles down throughout the economy, so we see this as an excellent opportunity for Sarnia-Lambton," Crozier said.
As Lecce said on Tuesday, all forms of power generation, including nuclear, will be considered but will ultimately be decided through community engagement.
Lambton County Warden Kevin Marriott wasn't willing to share his preference on the type of facility he'd like to see established, saying he'll wait to see what the experts recommend. Nevertheless, he's excited about the potential opportunity.
"I think we're open to whatever form fits best into the whole system," Marriott said. "It's time that we get those tax dollars back because it means a big difference in our budgets."
St. Clair Township Mayor Jeff Agar previously said the municipality lost about $2 million in tax revenue when LGS closed in 2013, and the township still hasn't fully recovered from the blow.
"It has always been my goal to see life brought back into the LGS in Courtright," said Agar during Tuesday's media conference.
It's unknown at this time when the community engagement process will start and in what capacity.
