Energy Council to Visit Nova Scotia

Senior leaders of the Energy Council will visit Nova Scotia in May to meet with industry stakeholders, Energy Minister Ernest Fage announced today, March 21.

"Energy, from natural gas to hydro to wind power, is a global industry and Nova Scotia is playing an increasing role as Atlantic Canada becomes recognized as an energy producing region," said Mr. Fage.

Natural gas is Nova Scotia's largest export to the United States.

"As our newest member we are anxious to learn more, first-hand about the energy industry in Nova Scotia and build closer relationships between all of our members," said Jim Ellington, a member of the Mississippi House of Assembly, who chairs the council.

Exact dates and the names of council representatives who will participate in the visit will be finalized in the next few days.

"We are looking forward to sharing our unique perspective on the energy industry with members of the council, and the opportunity for them to share theirs with Nova Scotians," said Mr. Fage.

The Energy Council is holding its 2003 conference on Federal Energy and Environmental Matters in Washington, D.C., March 20- 23. Alvaro Silva Calderon, secretary general of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, is the keynote speaker.

MLA Kerry Morash is attending the conference on behalf of the minister.

Members of the Energy Council include Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, and Wyoming. International affiliates include Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Venezuela.

Member states of the Energy Council produce more than 80 per cent of the United States' oil and gas, and include leading producers of coal, uranium, hydro and renewable energy.