Veridian Vice President Mark Turney addresses Belleville city council, October 26, 2016. (Photo: Mary Thomas/Quinte News)
Belleville has thrown its support behind one green energy program but dropped a second one.
Belleville council heard a presentation from Vice President of Veridian Mark Turney regarding two proposed solar panel projects on two city-owned buildings on Wallbridge Crescent.
The idea was that the city would support an application by Quinte Solar Generation to the province’s FIT program for solar energy and enter into a 20-year roof lease agreement with the company.
Turney said Belleville would own 15% and the investment would have a 9% return.
Councillor Paul Carr argued against it saying electricity pricing continues to be a problem in Ontario.
Council learned the city is getting $375,000 a year from its own rooftop solar panels.
Councillor Egerton Boyce said the city is capable of investing without a partner.
Council decided not to support the solar panel program,with Mayor Taso Christopher, and Councillors Mitch Panciuk and Garnet Thomson voting for it.
Council did approve supporting a FIT application for three hydraulic generation locations at dams on the Moira River in the city.
Councillors Kelly McCaw and Paul Carr voted against.
