Toronto – Ontario’s Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program was updated today with a new emphasis on energy storage and investment in smartening up the province’s grid.
The changes will mean a successful convergence and coordination of telecommunications, electricity, thermal energy, natural gas and water to best meet Ontario’s future energy needs, representing billions of dollars in business opportunities across global markets–a tremendous opportunity for Ontario inventors, entrepreneurs and manufacturer, and a victory for communities, First Nations and progressive renewable energy developers.
“The Government’s re-engagement and willingness to improve the program is both very important and timely,” says Kristopher Stevens, executive director of the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association (OSEA). “This renewed commitment will further strengthen Ontario’s leadership role in renewable energy.”
OSEA believes the enhanced role of municipalities combined with the changes that ease community and First Nations participation will fortify Ontario’s growing green economy. These improvements are important steps toward maximizing local benefits, creating jobs and addressing legitimate local concerns.
“Shifting the contracting and the Renewable Energy Approvals process oversight to the Cabinet Office responds to a previous weakness,” explained Stevens. “We trust this highlights the priority the Government is placing on renewable energy development and the priority it places on an orderly process and enhanced cross-Ministry coordination.”
Today’s changes also mean OSEA looks forward to helping commercial developers better understand and deploy engagement and partnership best practices that enhance community benefits.
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