April 30, 2015 – Working with communities, local distribution companies and Hydro One Networks, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) says it has produced 20-year plans that outline the steps for maintaining electricity service in seven regions across the province. These Integrated Regional Resource Plans provide a platform to capture local input on meeting electricity needs in the regions of: Brant, Central Toronto, Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge-Guelph, North West Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Ottawa, Windsor-Essex and York Region.

“A reliable, efficient electricity system is essential to supporting community growth,” said Bruce Campbell, IESO president and CEO. “Integrated Regional Resource Plans demonstrate a new approach to planning, one that gives municipalities and communities across the province a greater voice and responsibility in shaping their unique, local electricity needs, as well as Ontario’s electricity system as a whole.”

The regional plans take a “long-term perspective, examining possibilities to meet future local electricity needs through conservation, generation, transmission and innovative solutions”, IESO said.

In communities where long-term projects or solutions are required, Local Advisory Committees will now be formed to “examine options and develop plans that reflect local priorities”, IESO added, noting municipalities, First Nation and Métis communities will “continue to have an opportunity to play a key role” through these committees.

Full plans for each of the seven regions can be accessed on the IESO website.