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Promoting sustainable sources of energy

Renewable energy is energy that comes from natural, sustainable sources, like the sun, wind and water. Generating energy from these sources is a cleaner alternative to generating energy from more traditional sources like coal.

This is why the province developed the Renewable Energy Approvals (REA) regulation. This regulation has spurred the growth of renewable sources of energy by streamlining the approvals process for energy developers.

Ontario is moving away from fossil-fuel based, non-renewable energy sources, and toward natural sources that generate less pollution and will help improve Ontario's air quality.

• Read about Ontario's long-term energy plan

Addressing health problems

Coal-fired power plants emit sulphur dioxide, lead, mercury and other heavy metals and toxins known to cause serious health problems, including cancer.

The Canadian Medical Association estimates air pollution costs Ontario more than $220 million in health care costs and contributes to the deaths of 1,200 Ontarians each year.

• Learn about the illness cost of air pollution

Generating energy from renewable sources creates significantly less pollution than coal-fired power generation, which is better for our health and our economy.