May 6, 2013 – The Ontario government says it is improving how the province plans and builds large energy infrastructure projects going forward; it has asked the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) and Ontario Power Authority (OPA) to develop a new regional energy planning process based on formal input from municipalities, communities and the energy sector.

“Now it’s time to improve how we plan, site and build energy infrastructure in Ontario,” said Bob Chiarelli, minister of energy. “By working with municipalities and the public to create regional energy plans, we’ll make sure we get siting decisions right the first time.”

IESO and OPA are expected to report back to the minister of energy with a joint implementation plan by August 1, 2013. The plan will take into account recommendations on energy project siting made by the Legislative Assembly’s Standing Committee on Justice Policy.