49 Megawatts
Here is a short preview of what you can expect from ‘49 Megawatts’. Since creating this clip for LVM Video, Bryan has expanded the scope of his film to include viewpoints from many different parties involved, from industry representatives to members of communities affected by these projects. Click here to download a higher-resolution version of this clip.
Due to be released in Spring 2007, ‘49 Megawatts’ is an independent documentary film project being produced by Bryan Smith. As the world begins to acknowledge the immediate need to curb greenhouse gas emissions in an attempt to slow global warming, British Columbia is responding with an aggressive push for clean and sustainable energy. This film takes a close look at the future of British Columbia’s rivers after the issuing of hundreds of private water licenses for power production.
Using the story of Bryan Smith’s journey to better understand why the Ashlu River was being harnessed for energy production against the will of the local government and community, the film puts the Ashlu project in context with the planning and permitting process of river projects across British Columbia. The film will take a detailed look at the different opinions and facts surrounding future energy production and aims to incorporate the voices of all parties involved: local and provincial governments, specific user groups, First Nations, industry representatives and community members.
In the light of our socio-cultural habits, the surge for new energy production and environmental considerations, the film reflects on the future of rivers in British Columbia. Coupled with increasing demand and the inevitable need to affect our natural heritage, the question is posed: How do we responsibly fulfill our shift toward new methods of power production?