The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds the Ontario government for its new energy efficiency framework, as announced today (Jan 7) by Minister of Energy and Electrification, Stephen Lecce. The 12-year, $10.9 billion framework includes a significant rebate of up to 30% (to $10,000) for homeowners and small business owners interested in installing behind-the-meter (BTM) generation and distributed energy resources (DERs), such as rooftop solar and energy storage.
"The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds the Ontario government's forward-looking approach to meeting the province's growing energy needs. Supporting distributed energy resources (DERs), such as solar power and energy storage, unlocks significant potential for homeowners, businesses, First Nations and communities across the province, while securing a resilient and affordable energy future for generations to come," said Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO of CanREA.
As a key advocate for the integration of DERs and BTM solutions in Ontario, CanREA recognizes this announcement as a significant step forward for the sector. Ontario's newly expanded energy efficiency programs are poised to drive significant business growth for local solar and energy storage companies, fostering innovation and supporting clean energy jobs throughout the province.
As CanREA has noted in its Go Solar Guide, onsite solar panels and other DERs offer a range of benefits to customers and to the province: they are low-cost and rapidly deployable, they reduce the demand for electricity from the central grid, and they enhance grid reliability by producing power locally. Placing energy generation closer to where it is used helps defer or avoid the need for costly transmission infrastructure, thus minimizing long-distance electricity transmission and promoting a more efficient, sustainable energy system overall.
Currently, DERs such as rooftop solar and on-site energy storage already contribute over 3,000 MW to Ontario's grid. According to the Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors report, "BTM Solar: Canadian Market Outlook," DERs have the potential to add 2,000 MW by 2029, 4,300 MW by 2034, and a remarkable 16,300 MW by 2050. These resources are crucial to meeting Ontario's growing electricity demands and supporting a clean energy future.
CanREA is also pleased that the new framework includes programs specifically tailored for on-reserve First Nations, ensuring these communities can benefit directly from energy efficiency and clean energy opportunities, including on-site solar and energy storage.
"By putting customers at the forefront, these new and enhanced programs create meaningful opportunities for Ontarians to take control of their energy use and reduce costs," said Bellissimo.
CanREA looks forward to continuing to work with the Ontario government, the Independent Electricity System Operator and the Ontario Energy Board on enabling and integrating DERs, including streamlining connection processes and fees across all of Ontario's local electric utilities.
Photo, clockwise from L to R: Heidi Bredenholler-Prasad (VP, Commercial, Strategy and Business Development, Enbridge Gas), Sam Oosterhoff (Associate Minister of Energy Intensive Industries), Stephen Lecce (Minister of Energy and Electrification), Steven Greenley (VP, Commercial Services, Gas and Storage, Enbridge Inc), Lesley Gallinger (President and CEO, IESO).
Quotes
"The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds the Ontario government's forward-looking approach to meeting the province's growing energy needs. Supporting distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar power and energy storage unlocks significant potential for homeowners, businesses, First Nations and communities across the province, while securing a resilient and affordable energy future for generations to come. By putting customers at the forefront, these new and enhanced programs create meaningful opportunities for Ontarians to take control of their energy use and reduce costs."
Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)
Contact:
Michaela Ianni, Communications Specialist
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
communications@renewablesassociation.ca
About CanREA
The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada's energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada's energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult "Powering Canada's Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA's 2050 Vision." Follow us on Twitter/X and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.
