Having committed to the largest climate change initiative in Canada, Ontario is phasing out coal-fired power generation by the end of 2014 and replacing it with wind, solar and other renewable energy resources. Carbon emitting coal generation capacity has already been cut by 40 per cent since 2003.
Ontario’s Green Energy Act (GEA) is driving investment in renewable energy projects and increasing conservation. It is creating green jobs and stimulating economic growth.
This legislation facilitates the growth of clean, renewable sources of energy, helping Ontario to become North America’s leader in renewable energy. This will be achieved by:
- Creating a Feed-in Tariff (FIT) to guarantees rates for renewable energy;
- Connecting renewable energy projects to Ontario’s electricity grid;
- Solidifying a streamlined one-stop approvals process and providing service guarantees for renewable energy projects;
- Putting online a modern “smart” power grid to make best use of new renewable energy projects, and set the groundwork for new technologies like electric cars.
Ontario's feed-in tariff or FIT Program offers comprehensive guaranteed pricing structure for renewable electricity production and has made it simpler and more efficient to bring new projects online.
Stable prices under long-term contracts for energy generated from renewable sources will include the following technologies:
More than 30 businesses since 2009 have announced plans to set up or expand plants in Ontario to manufacture components to support the solar and wind industries. The GEA has already helped to create 20,000 jobs and is projected to create 30,000 more by the end of 2012.
Meaford’s abundant natural resources, progressive attitude, business friendly environment, competitive tax rates, affordable land prices, and location on Georgian Bay present an enticing opportunity for site selectors interested in taking advantage of Ontario’s progressive energy legislation.
The Municipality itself hosts an active and growing community of local green businesses including builders, retailers and food producers.