Keeyask hydro project gets OK from environment commission

Manitoba Hydro's proposed $6.5-billion Keeyask generating stationgot a little closer to reality onWednesday, with the Clean Environment Commission recommending that the project receive a crucial licence.

The commission's assessment of the proposed Keeyaskdam, which would be located ontheNelsonRiver,recommendsthat the provincial government granta Class 3 Environment Act licence for theproject.

Keeyaskstill needs the approval of the Public Utilities Board, and it mustmeetother requirements.

Conservationand Water Stewardship MinisterGordMackintoshapplauded the latest step on Wednesday.

"I would like to thank the Clean Environment Commission for its thorough review of the proposal and all the people who took the time to make a submission at the public hearings," he said.

"This is an important project, both for the environment and for the economy, and we will carefully consider the commission's recommendations."

The CECs environmental licence stipulates thatHydro must increase efforts to monitor wildlife in the area.

The report also said in 100 years,Keeyask will emit the same amount of greenhouse gas emissions as a natural gas-fired generating plant would in 177 days.

Manitoba Hydro wants to start construction on the projectthis summer.