Ontario’s energy minister, Stephen Lecce, aims to not only meet a 75% increase in electricity demand but to surpass it and sell excess power to other jurisdictions. The province’s electricity system is expected to grow by 75% leading up to 2050, prompting the need for a clean, reliable, and affordable grid. Prioritizing nuclear and hydroelectric generation for baseload power, Ontario also recognizes the need for natural gas generation for peak demand reliability. Despite the increase in natural gas generation leading to emissions, the ministry believes it will ultimately help reduce emissions by supporting broader electrification.
In 2021, Ontario’s electricity system was 94% emissions-free, but this has decreased to 87% due to increased reliance on natural gas generation. Stephen Lecce emphasizes that Ontario’s grid is one of the cleanest globally and sees the potential for the province to become an energy superpower. With interties to Manitoba, Quebec, Minnesota, Michigan, and New York, Ontario has been a net exporter of clean energy since 2006, albeit sometimes at a loss. The Independent Electricity System Operator is working on an export strategy to generate new revenue streams by tapping into jurisdictions with clean energy commitments or coal reliance.
Ontario aims to become a leading exporter of energy technology, particularly highlighting agreements on small modular reactors with other jurisdictions. The province is already procuring new resources to meet domestic demand, including plans for four small modular nuclear reactors and exploration of a new large-scale nuclear plant. Lecce emphasizes the need for affordability in decision-making, prioritizing competitive procurements and low-cost options. Looking ahead, Ontario plans to announce new energy efficiency programs later this year as part of its conservation initiatives.
Lecce stresses that Ontario’s priority is securing affordable energy for its residents, while also positioning the province as an energy superpower. By scaling up clean energy exports to the U.S. and other jurisdictions, Ontario aims to create jobs and generate revenue for its citizens. With interconnected jurisdictions facing clean energy commitments and a shift away from coal, Ontario sees an opportunity to replace these resources with clean energy imports. The ministry is working on building a plan that prioritizes affordability and energy security for Ontarians, with a focus on competitive procurements and cost-effective solutions.
Ontario’s energy minister is committed to taking action to meet the province’s increasing electricity demand while maintaining a focus on affordability. The government is already planning new resources to expand electricity generation, including small modular nuclear reactors and potentially a new large-scale nuclear facility. Lecce acknowledges that more needs to be done to ensure energy security for Ontarians, without revealing specific projects at this time. In addition to expanding generation capacity, Ontario is also planning new conservation initiatives and energy efficiency programs to further improve the province’s energy system.
