The editor:
The article “Presentation made to RM opposing wind turbines” posted to Â鶹ÊÓƵ on Feb. 20, 2025, contains assertions by Rose McInnes that are inaccurate and lacking important context.
McInnes expresses concerns that the Seven Stars Energy Project will have impacts to wildlife, livestock, insects and the earthworm population in the area. It’s important to note that reducing impacts to wildlife is an important part of responsible wind energy development. Enbridge is working hard to understand, avoid and minimize potential effects throughout the lifespan of the project. This work is supported by independent, third-party professional biologists. We are not aware of any scientific studies that suggest regional earthworm or insect populations are impacted by wind turbines. Additionally, there is no credible, peer-reviewed research that we know of to support the claim that wind farms harm livestock such as cattle or horses.
With regards to the RM of Weyburn bylaw amendment, in full transparency, we voluntarily put the full application on the first page of our project website in January. As you can see in the application, we are simply trying to clarify that the domestic turbine height restriction does not apply to commercial facilities.
The article also states that a model was shown to RM council members demonstrating what turbines will look like at a distance of 1,000 meters from a residence. As McInnis knows from attending our Dec. 11, 2024 open house, our project layout has been updated to a minimum separation of 1,500 meters from a residence, unless specifically agreed upon by the landowner.
The Seven Stars Energy Project has the potential to provide significant economic benefits to the region, diversifying the local economy and providing a boost for local business.
We can point specifically to the following economic inputs: (1) A 200-MW project which commences operations in 2027 would contribute to the RMs of Weyburn and Griffin estimated tax income as well as provincial education tax revenue estimated at $25 to $30 million ($800,000 annually); (2) job creation of more than 200 jobs at peak construction and approximately four to eight full-time jobs to be created during the operating life of the project; (3) contracting opportunities for material supply, and construction services companies during construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning project phases, and (4) many other economic benefits to area businesses, such as hotels, grocery stores and restaurants, who will benefit from the presence of work crews during project planning and construction.
Additionally, there will be direct compensation for project landowners, as well as additional community investment funding by Enbridge during construction and operations.
We look forward to more facts-based dialogue with Weyburn area residents as we advance this important project in the months to come. Please go to Enbridge.com and search “Seven Stars” to learn more about the project.
Alex McNichol
Director, Power Business Development, Enbridge
