The Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT) is calling on the Provincial Government to lift its moratorium on uranium and thorium exploration, aligning with BC’s latest push to expand renewable energy infrastructure.
“The BC Government’s commitment to accelerating renewable energy projects is a step in the right direction,” said Jasroop Gosal, Interim Spokesperson and Policy & Research Manager at SBOT. “However, uranium and thorium exploration must also be considered to ensure a diversified and stable clean energy future for BC.”
The government recently announced new legislation that streamlines the permitting process for wind, solar, and other renewable energy projects by placing them under the BC Energy Regulator (BCER). This move aims to expand BC’s electricity grid and support growing energy demands from industries such as critical mineral mining and port electrification.
SBOT emphasizes that while renewables are essential, uranium and thorium offer another crucial low-carbon energy solution. Canada is already the world’s second-largest producer of uranium, with provinces like Ontario and Quebec benefiting from its economic potential. With nuclear energy playing a key role in global carbon reduction strategies, BC should position itself as a leader in supplying the necessary resources.
“BC has an opportunity to strengthen its clean energy leadership by removing outdated barriers to uranium and thorium exploration,” added Gosal. “This would drive economic growth and contribute to a resilient, low-carbon energy mix.”
-30-
Jasroop Gosal, 604-634-0345, jasroop@businessinsurrey.com
