Prince George, BC – BC's Minister of Energy and Mines is encouraged by the findings of the Joint Review Panel's assessment of the proposed Site C Clean Energy Project in northeastern BC…

Both the Province and federal government will make a decision on environmental approval within six months.  If approved, the Province must make a final investment decision on the proposed $8.0-billion dollar dam and hydroelectric generating station slated for the Peace River, just south of Fort St John.

In a news conference following this afternoon's public release of the JRP's final report, Bill Bennett cites the panel's conclusion that Site C would be the least expensive option for meeting BC's future energy needs over the long-term as an encouraging conclusion.

Bennett says the report is an important part of determine whether the impacts of the project are justified by its benefits.  He says his government will take time to carefully consider the 471-page report and its 50 recommendations, as it makes a decision on the Site C project – including what conditions the project will have to meet – should it receive environmental approval.