Insights West releases Site C poll claiming support to pause dam activities

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – A new online study done by Insights West and DeSmog Canada shows that 70% of people from a Insights West’s online panel of survey respondents support pausing the Site C dam construction to look at other alternatives.

73% of British Columbians also support sending the Site C dam for an independent review of both costs and demand according to the study. This was a recommendation made by a joint review panel back in 2014.

“When pondering Site C, British Columbians are favouring caution and not hubris,” said Mario Canseco, Vice President of Public Affairs at Insights West. “Most are willing to switch the focus to efficiency and alternative sources.”

According to Insights West, study results show Insights West’s online panel of survey respondents want a more “measured approach to the project”. Premier Christy Clark has promised to get the project to “the point of no return.”

BC Hydro has indicated that the province will not need new power until 2028 at the earliest, the survey states. If there is demand for more power down the road, 9 in 10 British Columbians support investing in energy efficiency measures (92%) and adding more wind, solar and geothermal power to the grid as needed (92%). 1/3 (37%) favour building large hydro dams.

Results are based on an online study. The study was conducted by Insights West from October 27 to October 30, 2016. The study saw 821 adult participants from British Columbia.