Image: Resource Works / Non-profit advocacy organization Resource Works announced Monday (Dec. 4) that former Environment Minister and Attorney General Barry Penner, a Chilliwack resident, will serve as chair of a new, high-profile campaign focused on energy policy in B.C., the Energy Futures Initiative.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Barry Penner

Chilliwack resident and former B.C. attorney general to head up B.C. energy policy firm

Dec 4, 2023 | 11:38 AM

VANCOUVER — Non-profit advocacy organization Resource Works announced Monday (Dec. 4) that former Attorney General Barry Penner, a Chilliwack resident, has been chosen to chair a new, high-profile campaign devoted to energy policy in B.C., the Energy Futures Initiative.

“Barry Penner’s experience in both the government and private sector make him uniquely well-qualified to speak to British Columbians on energy policy,” said Resource Works founder and CEO Stewart Muir. “Barry’s leadership will bring an important and fresh perspective to the conversation on BC’s long-term energy policy.”

Penner, who has been credited as bringing forward British Columbia’s first-ever climate action strategy roughly 15 years ago, highlighted the important role that the Energy Futures Initiative would take on in the months ahead.

“Our province is home to an ever-increasing demand for energy and a strong desire to reduce emissions,” said Penner. “Energy choices today will have a major impact on British Columbians for generations. As we look to a future of increasing electrification and a growing population, it’s crucial to consider what steps need to be taken, including making sure our energy system is reliable, affordable and sustainable for years to come.”

As British Columbia grapples with the ability to meet ambitious government targets, the Energy Futures Initiative says it will provide accurate and relevant information surrounding the state of energy in B.C.

VEHICLE INCIDENT

Traffic stalled after crash on Highway 1 near Langley Saturday afternoon

8h ago

BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH

Fraser Health introduces support for patients with brain injury from toxic drug use

10h ago

UFV AWARD

UFV grad from Mission receives Governor General's Silver Medal

13h ago

“Energy Futures will focus on presenting clear, factual information about the impacts that different policy options will have on our province,” Penner said in a news release from Energy Futures Initiative. “British Columbians deserve to be informed about how today’s energy choices will impact affordability, system reliability and climate goals. Let’s have an open discussion.”

The campaign says it will generate informational content that will examine topics related to the state of energy in British Columbia by showcasing the critical role that energy plays in the economy and highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that can come from different types of government policy.

“Energy plays a vital role in our province, and Resource Works is proud to stand behind this incredibly exciting initiative,” said Resource Works managing director Margareta Dovgal.

“Robust planning, strong policy incentives and meaningful engagement with British Columbians will enable our energy future to securely, sustainably and affordably meet our needs for years to come,” she added.

Penner says the Energy Futures Initiative would submit policy recommendations to senior levels of government, starting with the provincial government’s throne speech in February 2024.