Ontario Plans 5,000 Megawatts Energy Procurement

Ontario's Energy Minister Stephen Lecce announced plans to procure 5,000 megawatts (MW) of energy to meet increasing demand, which is expected to rise by approximately two percent annually. The procurement will include a diverse mix of energy sources such as natural gas, hydroelectric, renewables, nuclear, and biomass, reflecting the government's 'energy agnostic' approach. Local municipal support will be essential for energy projects, with protections in place for prime agricultural areas; notably, ground-mounted solar farms will be prohibited on such lands. Lecce emphasized the importance of this initiative for economic growth and electrification of various sectors, including industries leveraging artificial intelligence. The Independent Electricity System Operator is tasked with developing the procurement framework by September 20, 2024, with the process expected to conclude by February 28, 2026. This effort marks the largest energy procurement in Ontario's history, aiming to ensure affordable and reliable electricity for families and businesses.