Ontario has taken strides in its clean energy transition by rapidly phasing out coal, adding non-emitting sources, leveraging its vast hydroelectric resources and nuclear infrastructure, and making strategic investments in energy conservation efforts. However, emissions have been on the rise. While Ontario's grid was 94% emissions-free in 2020, this was down to 87% in 2024, and this trend is expected to continue. One of the key factors for increasing emissions is forecasted growth in gas generation, which is anticipated to account for nearly a quarter of the province's electricity supply by 2030. This threatens to undermine Ontario's clean energy achievements and add unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions.
Ontario released its vision for an integrated energy plan in October 2024, with the commitment to include a Natural Gas Policy Statement. As such, the Ministry of Energy and Electrification opened a consultation period for feedback on the role of natural gas in the province's energy plan.
This consultation is an opportunity for the province to critically examine the role of natural gas in the province's future energy mix. any emergent natural as policy must prioritize long-term advantages for Ontarians, acknowledging that reliance on gas would open up the province's energy system to price volatility and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
