Ontario power supply adequate over next 18 months

Ontario Renewable Energy Outlook details 2,400 MW to the transmission grid and 900 MW to distribution, IESO biomass conversions, wind, solar, hydro growth, a 3,600 MW lower summer peak, and a 2015 demand response auction.

TORONTO, ON – The reliability of Ontario's electricity system remains positive, reported the IESO in its 18-Month Outlook. The Outlook, which covers the period September 2014 to February 2016, forecasts adequate supply levels and reliable transmission service throughout that timeframe.

Highlights of the IESO report include:

- In total, 2,400 MW of new generation capacity will connect to the transmission grid over this period, including wind, solar, hydro and biomass generation that support a more sustainable supply mix across the province. At the same time, an additional 900 MW in renewable generation will be connected to local distribution systems.

- Atikokan Generating Station GS has been converted and is now the largest biomass facility in North America. Thunder Bay GS, the last coal facility to retire in the province, is also in the process of being converted to biomass and will be in service during this outlook period. Collectively, these stations will add 350 megawatts MW of new supply to the system.

- Energy consumption was slightly lower this summer, partially as a result of cooler weather. The summer peak was roughly 3,600 MW lower than the previous year's. Ontario may see a narrower gap between winter and summer peaks than in previous years, reflecting an optimistic IESO outlook on system conditions.

- The IESO continues to move forward to develop its first demand response DR auction in 2015. It is anticipated that a market-based approach to procuring DR will provide greater flexibility to the system and a broader range of opportunities for DR providers, complementing new infrastructure and supply that reduce the need for coal in Ontario.

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