Ontario has made a significant leap in securing its energy future with the largest battery storage procurement in Canadian history. Announced on May 9, 2024, by the Ministry of Energy, this move is part of Ontario's strategy to enhance clean energy infrastructure and ensure long-term reliability and sustainability.
The procurement round secured 2,195 megawatts (MW) of capacity, enough to meet the peak electricity demand of 2.2 million homes. This includes 1,784 MW of clean energy storage from ten project. With this addition, Ontario's total storage fleet will reach 2,916 MW, surpassing the initial target of 2,500 MW.
Expanding the clean electricity system has been crucial in attracting large-scale manufacturing projects to Ontario. "Our government has now broken records once again by completing the largest battery storage procurement in Canadian history," said Todd Smith, Minister of Energy. This ensures a reliable supply of clean energy, supporting economic growth and job creation.
The procurement also includes 411 MW of natural gas and on-farm biogas generation, ensuring reliability during extreme weather conditions. This balanced approach follows advice from the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO).
The IESO's 2024 Annual Planning Outlook forecasts a 60% increase in electricity demand over the next 25 years. The newly procured resources, expected to be operational by 2028, will be crucial in meeting this demand while maintaining a clean, reliable, and affordable electricity system.
Looking ahead, Ontario plans to continue expanding its clean energy infrastructure through various initiatives, including advancing nuclear power projects, prioritizing new transmission lines, launching energy efficiency programs, and planning further procurements for non-emitting energy resources.
Ontario's completion of the largest battery storage procurement marks a milestone in its journey towards a sustainable energy future, ensuring economic growth, attracting investments, and providing reliable, clean, and affordable power for years to come. For more information, visit Ontario News.
