To the Editor,
TC Energy recently announced that a team led by Worley, together with EllisDon and AECOM, has been selected to advance detailed engineering, project design, cost estimates, and project-readiness work for the proposed Ontario Pumped Storage Project in Meaford.
The announcement raises an important question: why is the project continuing to move forward while significant federal reviews and decisions remain outstanding?
Recent records released by the Department of National Defence identify unresolved concerns related to species at risk, wetlands, drinking water protection, military operations, contamination risks, and federal land use. The same records state that DND does not yet have sufficient information to complete all of its assessments and that additional federal approvals may be required before the project can proceed.
Residents may reasonably ask why detailed engineering contracts are being awarded before these issues have been resolved.
The announcement also raises questions about a project that has long been promoted as supporting Ontario jobs and Canadian expertise. While local participation remains promised, the next phase of development is now being led by Australia-based Worley.
No one disputes the importance of reliable electricity. However, major infrastructure projects should answer fundamental environmental and public-interest questions before momentum makes them appear inevitable.
Pat Zita, Meaford
