Ontario Sets New Record For Peak Demand

TORONTO - - Ontario set a new all-time record for electricity demand of 27,005 megawatts (MW) at 5 p.m., exceeding the previous record of 26,160 MW set on July 13, 2005, reported Ontario's Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO).

"Today's events clearly demonstrated how all parts of the system work closely together to ensure reliability," said Paul Murphy, IESO chief operating officer. "Ontario's generators and transmitters performed exceptionally well and we worked with neighbouring jurisdictions to coordinate reliable operation throughout the region. We would also like to thank those consumers who were able to respond to our request to curtail their use of electricity."

Increased generation over the past 12 months has improved Ontario's overall supply picture this summer.

In addition the IESO has introduced new market mechanisms to better manage the reliability of the system including the Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP).

Toronto Hydro-Electric System, Hamilton Specialty Bar Corp., St. Mary's Paper Ltd., and Washington Mills Electro Minerals Corp., all participants in the ELRP, committed to reduce up to 69 MW if called upon to do so.

Georgia-Pacific Canada Inc., Flakeboard Co. Ltd. and Saint-Gobain Ceramic Material Canada Inc. are also participants in the program.

The power warning currently in effect ended at 8 p.m. tonight.

Tomorrow, Ontario demand is forecast to peak at approximately 26,500 MW.

The IESO is responsible for managing Ontario's bulk electricity system and operating the wholesale electricity market.