Most adult Ontarians support the use of nuclear power to keep the lights on, an exclusive Sun/Leger survey suggests. Although 60 per cent of those surveyed said they prefer hydroelectric power, 54 per cent responded that they back nuclear as part of the mix. The survey of 1,000 adults comes as debate around the use of additional nuclear power in Ontario grows louder. The province recently announced a $4.25-billion deal with Bruce Power to refurbish two mothballed reactors along the shore of Lake Huron.
Premier Dalton McGuinty is also awaiting a report tomorrow from the new Ontario Power Authority which is expected to support a long-term generation plan including new nuclear power. McGuinty has said his government will support such a recommendation if it comes. The poll also found a very divided public on whether protecting the environment, ensuring reliable supply or keeping hydro bills low should be the most important factor when deciding how to generate new power. Protecting the environment scored slightly above the two, with 36 per cent of people responding that it should receive priority when managing the electricity system.
Ensuring a stable system was the priority for another 32 per cent, while 30 per cent said cheap rates are most important. The poll was taken between Oct. 12-18 and is considered accurate to within plus of minus 3.1 per cent, 19 times out of 20.