Appeals denied for World Energy GH2's plans on Newfoundland's west coast

Fifteen groups appealing World Energy GH2's plan to put hundreds of windmills on Newfoundland's west coast have been told their arguments are denied.

Environment Minister Bernard Davis said the government followed its legislative process and determined there was no reason to accept the appeals concerning the project's environmental assessments. 

"That decision was made on Friday and Saturday," Davis told CBC News.

In April, the provincial government approved the World Energy GH2 hydrogen project, bringing more than 300 wind turbines on the Port au Port Peninsula and Codroy Valley and a hydrogen-ammonia plant in Stephenville.

The project was in limbo as it navigated the provincial environmental impact process.

Davis told reporters in April that World Energy GH2 will have approximately 60 conditions to meet relating to the pre-construction period, construction period and criteria to meet for the duration of the project's lifespan, such as water and noise monitoring.

The effects of moving heavy equipment across the province on infrastructure were also considered. 

Davis said World Energy GH2 will have to submit a plan to ensure bridges and roads can handle the weight, and a community liaison committee will be in place for public and government oversight.

Since the project's approval, Davis remains confident in the environmental assessment findings. 

He said conditions were in place for the project's release and that significant public consultation will continue.

"There was a full consultation. The environmental assessment process is very fulsome — it covers a variety of different departments," Davis said.

"We put things in place that allow for those concerns that were raised to be mitigated, and obviously that's where we've upheld that decision."

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