Regional Electricity Plans Support Community Growth in Ontario

TORONTO, April 29, 2015 /CNW/ - Working with communities, local distribution companies and Hydro One Networks, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has produced 20-year plans that outline the steps for maintaining reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective electricity service in seven regions across the province. These Integrated Regional Resource Plans provide a platform to capture local input on meeting electricity needs in the regions of: Brant, Central Toronto, Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge-Guelph, North West GTA, Ottawa, Windsor-Essex and York Region.

The regional plans take a long-term perspective, examining possibilities to meet future local electricity needs through conservation, generation, transmission and innovative solutions. This process supports community growth and results in plans that will align better with other local planning initiatives. A working group consisting of the local electric distribution companies, the local transmitter and the IESO is responsible for developing each plan. Taking a regional planning perspective allows for the development of more cost-effective alternatives.

"A reliable, efficient electricity system is essential to supporting community growth. Integrated Regional Resource Plans demonstrate a new approach to planning, one that gives municipalities and communities across the province a greater voice and responsibility in shaping their unique, local electricity needs, as well as Ontario's electricity system as a whole," said Bruce Campbell, President and CEO, IESO.

In communities where long-term projects or solutions are required, Local Advisory Committees will now be formed to examine options and develop plans that reflect local priorities. Municipalities, First Nation and Métis communities will continue to have an opportunity to play a key role through these committees.

A backgrounder with a summary of each plan is available, and full plans for the seven regions can be accessed on the IESO website. These seven plans cover regions that account for approximately two-thirds of Ontario's population. Each region has a designated webpage that includes demographic information about the region, a map and information about how community members can get involved or keep informed. More information on Ontario's 21 planning regions and the regional planning process is available here.

"Ontario is committed to long-term planning that is responsive to regional needs. I want to thank the IESO for working with communities, local distribution companies and Hydro One Networks to produce plans that will help ensure Ontario communities have the clean, reliable and affordable energy they need now and into the future," said Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Energy.

About the IESO

The IESO manages the province's power system so that Ontarians receive power when and where they need it. It plans and prepares for future electricity needs, and works with its partners to guide conservation efforts. A not-for-profit entity established by the Government of Ontario, IESO fees and licenses to operate are set by the Ontario Energy Board. On January 1, 2015, the Ontario Power Authority amalgamated with the IESO. For more information, please visit www.ieso.ca.

SOURCE Independent Electricity System Operator

For further information: Media Contact: Alexandra Campbell, Independent Electricity System Operator, 416-506-2806, [e-mail]