Please find attached our comments

To:  Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
Project: Riverside Generating Station (Registry #89801)

Letter of Support – Atura Power’s Proposed Riverside Generating Station Project

On behalf of the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce, we are writing to express our support for Atura Power’s proposed Riverside Generating Station (GS), to be located at Ontario Power Generation’s former Lambton Generating Station site in St. Clair Township, Ontario.

The Chamber represents a broad network of local businesses and industries that are deeply invested in the region’s economic vitality, energy reliability, and environmental stewardship. The proposed Riverside GS aligns strongly with these priorities for several key reasons:

1. Economic Growth and Local Investment
   The Riverside project will bring significant direct and indirect economic benefits to the Sarnia–Lambton region through local construction activity, procurement opportunities, and ongoing operations. The reuse of an existing industrial site demonstrates responsible land use and supports the retention of skilled trades and technical expertise in our community.
2. Energy Reliability and Transition
   Ontario’s growing electricity demand requires dependable, flexible generation to complement renewable energy sources. The Riverside GS will provide critical system reliability and support the province’s transition toward a lower-carbon electricity grid. Reliable, affordable power is essential to sustaining and attracting investment in manufacturing and petrochemical industries—cornerstones of the local and provincial economy.  We also encourage the IAAC to also look at the possibility of small modular nuclear reactors on this site.
3. Environmental Responsibility and Innovation
   Atura Power has established a strong record of environmental performance and collaboration. By repurposing the former Lambton GS site, the project minimizes new land disturbance and leverages existing infrastructure. We also recognize Atura Power’s ongoing exploration of low-carbon hydrogen and other clean energy technologies, which positions this project as part of Ontario’s broader decarbonization strategy.
4. Community Engagement
   The Chamber appreciates Atura Power’s proactive engagement with local stakeholders, Indigenous communities, and residents. Their transparent approach and willingness to listen and adapt are consistent with the values of responsible development that our members support.

In summary, the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce believes the Riverside Generating Station represents a balanced, forward-looking investment in Ontario’s energy future—one that supports economic resilience, environmental responsibility, and community collaboration.

We respectfully encourage the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada to recognize the importance of this project to our region and to allow it to advance through the federal review process.

Thank you for considering our comments.

Sincerely,

Carrie McEachran, CEO
Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce