Ontario Plans for Sustainable Sources to Address Future Electricity Demand
Ontario’s Energy Minister, Todd Smith, has unveiled a strategy aimed at preparing the province’s electricity grid for anticipated demand growth between 2030 and 2050. The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) projects that Ontario’s electricity demand could double by mid-century. To address this, the government will focus on seeking new sustainable sources of energy, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.
While immediate construction may not be required, Smith emphasized the importance of planning to ensure the availability of clean, zero-emissions projects when they are needed. The government’s strategy also includes two nuclear projects – a large-scale plant at Bruce Power and three small modular reactors at the Darlington nuclear plant. These projects, expected to power six million homes, will help Ontario reduce its reliance on natural gas for electricity generation.
However, the successful implementation of the nuclear projects depends on the federal government’s support in expediting the construction process. Smith aims to achieve a 100% clean grid, and he hopes that the federal government aligns with this objective to enable the timely development of new clean energy generation projects. By doing so, Ontario can minimize its dependence on natural gas facilities in the future.
The IESO has acknowledged that natural gas is necessary for short to medium-term supply and stability. However, it is also recognized that its use increases greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity sector. With the expected surge in electric vehicle use and manufacturing, Ontario is set to face increased demand for electricity in the coming years.
The Canadian Climate Institute has praised the provincial plan’s emphasis on reducing reliance on gas-fired generation and promoting non-emitting sources of energy. However, there are concerns about the construction of new gas-fired generation facilities. The Institute recommends exploring cost-effective alternatives and suggests that such facilities may become stranded assets. Additionally, Ontario’s timeline for achieving net-zero generation is unclear, and addressing this issue will be essential for maintaining competitiveness.
The previous round of procurements for electricity generation included natural gas and battery storage projects. The upcoming procurement plans will prioritize green power options like wind, solar, hydroelectric, and biogas. These renewable sources will complement recent energy storage procurements, allowing surplus power generated from sources like solar panels to be stored and injected into the grid when needed.
Ontario is also considering the addition of two new pump storage projects. This technology involves pumping water into a reservoir during low-demand periods and releasing it through a turbine to generate electricity during peak demand. Pump storage can dispatch energy for eight hours, twice the capability of current battery storage systems.
Critics point out that Ontario’s electricity supply crunch could have been reduced if the previous government hadn’t canceled 750 green energy contracts during its term. Smith defended the decision, citing an oversupply of electricity, stagnated demand, and inflated prices. The Progressive Conservative government aims to alleviate anger over rising hydro bills while ensuring a steady and cost-effective power supply.
As Ontario focuses on its strategy to secure sustainable energy sources, the path to a cleaner, greener grid becomes clearer. With a balance of renewable sources, nuclear power, and energy storage solutions, the province can meet increasing electricity demands while reducing reliance on natural gas and minimizing its environmental impact.
