The provincial government is skeeing comment from Ontario residents as it brings its long-term energy plan up to date.
The new plan will help guide the province as tries to build a reliable, clean, and cost-effective electricity system into the future.
The plan, first introduced in 2006, has resulted in the creation of 8,000 more megawatts (MW) of new energy powering Ontario homes and businesses. That’s enough electricity to power cities the size of Ottawa and Toronto. It is also the first significant new generation built in Ontario in over 10 years.
The up to date plan will ensure Ontario continues to be a North American leader for clean energy jobs and technology and will incorporate the strategy to shutdown all dirty, smog-producing coal plants by 2014.
Minister of Energy Brad Duguid said, “Seven years ago Ontarians weren’t sure when they flicked the switch if the lights would come on. Now, our power system is strong, reliable and cleaner.
Building on these gains and moving this updated plan forward is essential, so that our children and grandchildren can rely on the lights turning on for years to come.”
Ontario has rejuvenated nuclear energy capacity, added new natural gas-fired plants and is spending on expanded hydroelectric stations at Niagara and the Lower Mattagami.
Coal generation is down 70 per cent from 2003 levels, on the way to eliminating all dirty, smog producing coal plants by the end of 2014.
Ontario will be seeking views and input from key contributors on the future of Ontario’s electricity system including utilities, environmental organizations, energy companies, First Nation and Métis organizations, consumer groups and others.
To learn more or offer comments, call Andrew Block in the Minister’s Office at 416-327-6747, or Anne Smith at the Communications Branch at 416-327-7226.
