Ontario's Renewable Energy Initiative

Ontario’s Green Energy Act, which became law in May 2009, places a priority on expanding clean and renewable sources of energy including wind, solar, bio-energy and water. Developing these sources of power is key to the government’s plans to phase out coal-fired generation, a major part of Ontario’s efforts to combat climate change, and create a stronger, greener economy.

Phasing out coal at Ontario Power Generation plants is the single largest greenhouse gas reduction initiative anywhere in Canada. It will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30 megatonnes. Replacing coal with other sources of energy is a key component of Ontario's Climate Change Action Plan.

Ontario is on track to phase out the province’s coal-fired power plants by 2014. 

Since 2003, coal-fired generation in Ontario has been decreasing.  The closure of Lakeview Generating Station in 2005 eliminated carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to taking approximately 500,000 cars off Ontario roads. 

The Green Energy Act builds on this initiative.  The act’s primary focus is the creation and integration of much more renewable energy into Ontario’s provincial power mix.  It also emphasizes energy conservation, helping to create a culture of sustainability and support Ontario’s green economy. 

Renewable Energy Approval

The provincial standards for renewable projects are now outlined in a new approvals process, the Renewable Energy Approval (REA).

REA combines previous requirements under the Environmental Assessment Act with clear provincial rules and standards in a new regulation under the Environmental Protection Act. The regulation became law on September 24, 2009.

• News: Green Energy Act Will Attract Investment, Create Jobs Green Energy Rules Make Ontario A North American Leader
• Factsheet: Wind Facilities
• Noise Setbacks for Wind Farms
• Factsheet: Solar Facilities
• Factsheet: Bio-Energy Facilities
• Factsheet: Waterpower Facilities
• Frequently Asked Questions

Regulation Decision Notice

The Decision Notice for the Renewable Energy Approval can now be found on the Environmental Registry. Additionally, as there has been considerable interest in this initiative, the Ministry has currently made available for public access the complete public record of the EBR comments received through the Ministry's regional, district and area offices.