Yurdin Opposes Johnston-Invenergy Water Deal and Clear Water Energy Center

Jan 19, 2017 | 0 comments

Councilman Seth Yurdin (Ward One) will tonight introduce a resolution opposing Invenergy’s proposed fossil fuel power plant in Burrillville and the use of Providence water for the project.    A copy of the full resolution can be found here.

Invenergy’s plan to build a power plant in Burrillville has been met with widespread resistance throughout the state in the past year, with 16 cities and towns passing resolutions in opposition.

Invernergy has also had serious difficulties obtaining a source of cooling water – estimated at up to 1 million gallons per day – with the Pascoag Utility District, the Harrisville Fire District, and the City of Woonsocket rejecting the utility’s offers.  Yurdin’s resolution follows a recent decision by the Town of Johnston to enter into an agreement with Invenergy to resell water supplied to the town by Providence.

“Given the local, statewide and national concern about the impact of fossil fuels on our climate,  it is simply wrong for Providence to support the Invenergy plant,” said Yurdin. “Providence’s resources, including its water, should not be used to support the project.”

The resolution also calls for the City Solicitor and manager of the Providence Water Supply Board to assist in advising on the legality of resale and markup of Providence water as well as the impact on the proposed use on ratepayers of the system.

Yurdin added, “With an incoming federal administration set to frustrate efforts to address climate change, state and local efforts are more important than ever.  Cities and towns across Rhode Island and the United States need to work together to oppose projects like Invenergy’s Clear Water Energy Center in Burrillville.”

The City Council will consider Yurdin’s resolution on Thursday, January 19th at 7:00 pm. The Council meeting will be held in the City Council Chambers on the third floor of City Hall.

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