Ontario Launches Plan to Secure Energy for Generations

TORONTO – Today, the Ontario government released Energy for Generations, the province’s first-ever integrated energy plan - a comprehensive roadmap to meet future energy needs, support new housing and power the most competitive economy in the G7. This plan is an important part of the government’s work to protect Ontario by bringing together electricity, natural gas, hydrogen and other energy sources under a single coordinated strategy to ensure the province has the affordable, secure, reliable and clean energy needed to build a more competitive, resilient, and self-reliant province.

“At the turn of the century, our great grandparents had the vision to build Ontario’s hydroelectric dams, later our grandparents started the build-out of Ontario’s nuclear fleet, and today, that responsibility falls on us to build for the future,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines and MPP for King—Vaughan. “While every jurisdiction around us scrambles for affordable power, our government is thinking ahead, building for our children and grandchildren. Energy for Generations represents the ambition and long-term thinking necessary to deliver critical nation-building priorities that solidify Canada’s self-reliance. As energy demand soars, our plan leverages ‘Made-In-Ontario’ to build affordable, clean, and always reliable power, built by and for Canadians.”

Over the next 25 years, demand for electricity is forecast to increase by 75 per cent, the equivalent to adding four and a half cities the size of Toronto to the grid. At the same time, there is continued demand for existing and emerging fuels that are critical for powering vehicles, heating our homes and supporting industry. To meet this demand, the province is making record investments in energy infrastructure that are helping protect workers in engineering, science, construction and other skilled trades by supporting economic growth and keeping workers on the job during a time of economic uncertainty.

At the same time, Energy for Generations will modernize the grid to support a smarter, more flexible system that can better integrate and manage new technologies, from net-new nuclear to advancing national energy corridors for clean energy, transmission, and pipelines, while also strengthening access to reliable and affordable fuels that are critical to Ontario’s industries, farmers and rural communities. Ontario’s approach is anchored in four guiding principles that have been established over the past seven years and define the province’s energy advantage:

• Affordability – Keeping energy costs low for families, businesses, and industry.

• Security – Building a self-reliant system with domestic infrastructure and supply.

• Reliability – Delivering consistent, 24/7 service to power every part of the province.

• Clean energy – Supporting economic growth, attracting investment while providing a North American solution to reduce emissions.

  
  

Energy for Generations advances a range of actions that leverage every energy resource and position the province for long-term success including:

• Meeting Growing Electricity Demand – Investing in energy efficiency, generation, storage and distribution, including competitive procurements and the largest nuclear buildout on the continent, while reaching more than 99 per cent zero-emissions electricity by 2050.

• Positioning Ontario as a Global Clean Energy Superpower – Growing exports of Ontario-made electricity, nuclear technology, medical isotopes, and engineering expertise to global markets, while supporting east-west grid connections across Canada.

• Leading on Energy Corridors and Infrastructure – Driving conversations on pipeline infrastructure and national energy corridors to support growth and energy security.

• Unlocking Distributed Energy Resources – Making it easier for individuals and businesses to generate, store and manage their own electricity through technologies like rooftop solar, batteries and smart thermostats.

• Planning Smarter, Faster – Ending siloed energy planning by integrating electricity, fuels and new technologies, and enhancing planning and development to better meet fast-growing demand.

• Protecting Access to Fuels – Safeguarding access to natural gas and other fuels, chosen by customers for home heating, industry and agriculture, by releasing Ontario’s first Natural Gas Policy Statement.

  
  

Ontario will be doing this work in partnership with municipalities, business, industry and Indigenous communities. This supports the province’s ongoing commitment to economic reconciliation including increasing funding for the Indigenous Energy Support Program to $25 million annually to help build long-term capacity, support equity partnerships and invest in more reliable solutions for First Nations.

"Ontario is taking concrete steps to ensure that our economy is powered by strong, self-reliant, and competitive energy sources – particularly in the face of the unprecedented energy demands that our growing province is experiencing,” said Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries. “This Integrated Energy Plan, the first of its kind, is a generational step toward an energy future that will grow our economy and support Ontario's industries, while remaining affordable, reliable, and secure.”

Energy for Generations provides a coordinated, long-term approach to make sure Ontario has the reliable, affordable energy it needs to be energy secure and power economic growth. The government’s integrated approach and record investments in energy infrastructure are also providing the certainty needed to for Indigenous communities, municipalities, businesses and industry partners to invest confidently in Ontario’s future. With a clear path forward, the plan not only helps meet the demands of today but will help protect workers and the economy by keeping workers on the job and powering growth and opportunities for generations to come.

Quick Facts

• Energy for Generations builds on the 2024 vision paper — Ontario’s Affordable Energy Future: The Pressing Case for More Power — that saw 136 submissions to the public consultation from Indigenous communities, municipalities, utilities, stakeholders and the public.

• The Affordable Energy Act, 2024, introduced by Minister Lecce in Fall 2024, amended the Electricity Act, 2024, and other legislation to establish a permanent legislative framework for integrated energy planning in Ontario.

• In addition to tripling the total amount of loan guarantees through the Indigenous Opportunities Financing Program to $3 billion, the province is increasing funding for the Indigenous Energy Support Program by $10 million annually to help build long-term capacity, support Indigenous equity partnerships in energy projects, and invest in more reliable and affordable energy solutions for First Nations communities.

  
  

Quotes

"Agriculture is the backbone of our economy. Our government is proud to support Ontario’s farmers with Energy for Generations to ensure they have the reliable, affordable energy they need to thrive. By integrating renewable natural gas and low-carbon hydrogen into our energy mix, this plan supports sustainable agriculture, powers rural communities, and strengthens our food security for generations to come."

- Trevor Jones

Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness

"A reliable, affordable, and forward-looking energy system will play an integral role in ensuring Ontario’s manufacturers are equipped with the necessary tools to power the innovations of tomorrow and confidently compete on the world stage. Through this integrated plan, our government is building an economy that not only endures but grows, securing good-paying jobs and long-term prosperity across strategic sectors."

- Vic Fedeli

Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade

"Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan represents a generational opportunity to drive Indigenous-led energy partnerships that deliver real economic benefits and build energy sovereignty in the North. Through this plan, we are creating the conditions for First Nations to transition off diesel, invest in clean, reliable energy infrastructure, and participate as true equity partners in projects that power prosperity. This is about reconciliation in action — ensuring Indigenous communities are not just at the table but leading the way and securing Ontario’s energy future for decades to come."

- Greg Rickford

Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, and the Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships

"This energy plan is central to our ability to deliver on our ambitious $200-billion infrastructure plan. With billions of dollars being deployed across all parts of the province to build new roads, bridges, water systems, homes, transit, schools, and hospitals, it’s crucial for us to secure access to reliable, affordable and clean energy grid that will power up Ontario’s build out, while boosting our province’s competitiveness and protecting jobs and economy."

- Kinga Surma

Minister of Infrastructure

"As our communities and businesses continue to grow, Northern Ontario will need secure, reliable, and affordable energy to succeed. With this Integrated Energy Plan, our government is focused long term investments in key energy infrastructure such as transmission lines and generating capacity that will fuel economic growth and stability for generations to come."

- George Pirie

Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth

"Ontario is growing fast, and the Integrated Energy Plan provides a roadmap to ensure all of Ontario continues to benefit from a reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity system. By bringing together sector partners across all fuel types, and collaborating with Indigenous, municipal and industry leaders, our electricity system can serve as a catalyst for economic growth for decades to come."

- Lesley Gallinger

President and CEO, IESO

"Bruce Power is proud to play a central role in building a clean, reliable, and affordable energy future. As a company that’s Canadian at our core, we’re committed to powering the growth of our economy and communities with made-in-Ontario nuclear innovation. Our investments in life-extension and pre-development work for Bruce C support the province’s growing economy and population, while ensuring we remain a global leader in emissions-free electricity. We’re proud to be an essential part of Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan—delivering sustainability and energy security for generations to come."

- Eric Chassard

President & CEO, Bruce Power

"The Association of Power Producers of Ontario (APPrO) strongly supports the Integrated Energy Plan released today by Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Stephen Lecce. This integrated energy resource plan will help manage change and growing demand by building out critical energy infrastructure while providing clear signals and long-term confidence to the sector and investors. By focusing on long term planning using reliability, affordability, and sustainability as its cornerstones, together we will use Ontario’s Clean Energy Advantage to help advance the energy transition and fight climate change."

- Colin Anderson

President and CEO, Association of Power Producers of Ontario (APPrO)

"Ontario's forest biomass resource is an entirely domestic source of secure, dispatchable. low-carbon heating and electrical energy. Over 80% of bioenergy expenditures remain within a region, providing an essential avenue for northern, rural, and Indigenous communities to participate in Ontario's energy transformation. Ontario is on a path to become a more globally competitive forest product jurisdiction, and the Ontario Forest Industries Association commends Minister Lecce and Premier Doug Ford for today's announcement, and our members are excited about bringing forward new job-creating clean energy projects to the IESO."

- Ian Dunn

President & CEO, Ontario Forest Industries Association

"As one of the fastest-growing regions in the province—home to Canada’s first EV battery manufacturing facilities and a hub of industrial and population growth—Western Ontario is powering Ontario’s economic engine. To sustain this momentum, we need a reliable, modern energy system that can meet both immediate needs and long-term demand. The Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus applauds the Ontario government’s commitment to integrated energy planning. This direction aligns with our 2025–2027 Strategic Priorities, especially our focus on infrastructure readiness and investment attraction. We look forward to working together to ensure the energy system enables continued growth and prosperity across our rural and urban communities."

- Amy Martin

Chair, Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus

"Ontario’s first Integrated Energy Plan is a significant milestone. By prioritizing affordability, coordination across energy sources, and a strong commitment to nuclear, the Government is laying the foundation for a competitive, future-ready energy system that will drive investment and economic growth."

- Giles Gherson

President & CEO, Toronto Region Board of Trade

"Ontario’s new Energy for Generations plan gives home builders the long-term confidence and clarity we need to deliver the housing supply Ontario families are counting on. By unifying electricity, natural gas, hydrogen and emerging technologies under one forward-looking strategy, the province is keeping energy affordable and reliable while driving the clean growth investors demand. This integrated approach will power new communities, support good construction jobs, and strengthen Ontario’s position as a North American leader in sustainable development. The Ontario Home Builders’ Association applauds Minister Lecce and the Ministry of Energy & Mines for this bold roadmap and looks forward to helping turn it into the homes and communities that will thrive for generations."

- Scott Andison

Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Home Builders’ Association

"The Ontario Energy Association (OEA) welcomes the Government of Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan. The Plan reinforces many strategies and concepts supported by the OEA, including: investing in grid modernization; providing clarity on the critical role of natural gas in Ontario’s energy mix; developing a roadmap for implementation of Distribution System Operator capabilities; expanding DER participation in IESO-administered markets; launching a regular planning cycle; developing a single integrated energy plan that accounts for all energy sources; and enhancing natural gas and electricity coordination in energy planning."

- Vince Brescia

President & CEO, Ontario Energy Association

"Ontario’s energy sector is undergoing a transformational shift, marked by the province’s first Integrated Energy Plan. As AMPCO collaborates closely with the government, the voice of large industrial energy consumers remains critical to shaping a balanced, forward-looking energy strategy—one that supports Ontario’s economic growth and long-term competitiveness."

- Brad Duguid

President of Association of Major Power Consumers in Ontario

"Reliable and affordable energy is essential to the mining supply and services sector. Our members—from manufacturers to technology providers—depend on consistent energy to operate efficiently and support mining operations across Ontario. As new mine developments come online, particularly in Northern Ontario, energy reliability will be a key factor in enabling future growth, investment, and competitiveness across the entire industry."

- Marla Tremblay

Executive Director of MineConnect

"Enbridge applauds the Ontario Government for its clear affirmation on the important role natural gas will play in Ontario's energy future. The Natural Gas Policy statement and Integrated Energy Plan reinforce that natural gas is essential – not only for affordability and reliability, but also as a catalyst for economic growth. Investments in energy and natural gas infrastructure are foundational to Ontario’s prosperity, providing grid stability, industrial growth and contributes to the quality of life our customers enjoy across Ontario."

- Michele Harradence

EVP & President, Enbridge Gas

"The waterpower industry applauds this government’s leadership with the release of this ambitious and action-oriented Integrated Energy Plan. The plan will serve as a catalyst to drive accelerated investment and expansion of local, reliable, hydroelectricity."

- Paul Norris

President of the Ontario Waterpower Association

"Energy Storage Canada applauds Ontario’s launch of its first integrated energy plan. As demand rises and the province aims for a secure, clean, and reliable energy future, energy storage technologies will be foundational to delivering on that vision. Whether enabling more clean energy, improving grid reliability, or unlocking distributed energy solutions, storage is the backbone of a modern, flexible energy system. We look forward to working with the province to ensure storage plays a central role in powering Ontario for generations to come."

- Justin Rangooni

President & CEO Energy Storage Canada

"The Government of Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan reflects the important role customer-facing utilities play in advancing a growing and thriving economy. Toronto Hydro is eager to meet the moment and answer the Minister’s call for utility leadership and enable the future through customer-centric solutions and operational excellence."

- Jana Mosley

President & CEO, Toronto Hydro Corporation

"The government's continued commitment to competitive, transparent procurements—reaffirmed in the Integrated Energy Plan (IEP)—will drive low-cost clean energy investments that benefit Ontario ratepayers. We are encouraged that the IEP identifies the critical actions needed to fully leverage the significant potential of distributed energy resources that bring energy and resilience to all regions in the province."

- Vittoria Bellissimo

President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association

"The Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries congratulates Minister Lecce and the Ontario Government on the release of their Integrated Energy Plan. We and the entire nuclear supply chain are proud of Ontario's robust nuclear fleet and its history of producing safe, clean, reliable electricity for our province. Now, through this IEP, Minister Lecce shows again his commitment and vision of Ontario as a clean energy leader. From the refurbishments at Ontario Power Generation and Bruce Power, through the BWRX-300 SMR project at Darlington and the announcements on the potential of large nuclear with OPG and Bruce Power, Ontario is poised for a nuclear expansion that would ensure our clean energy security for decades to come. OCNI and our members are standing by to help make this real!"

- Ivette Vera-Perez

President & CEO, The Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries

"AMO welcomes the Integrated Energy Plan that charts a path for reliable, affordable, clean energy in Ontario. The IEP reinforces the important role of municipalities in integrated energy planning, making decisions to host projects, and collaborating with energy proponents to ensure local communities benefit from development."

- Robin Jones

AMO President, Mayor of Westport

"Securing Ontario’s energy future, and enhancing our global competitiveness, means using every tool available. That’s why the Ontario Chamber of Commerce welcomes the government’s Integrated Energy Plan to expand supply, modernize infrastructure, and drive coordinated growth. Ontario’s leadership and commitment to advance national energy corridors are essential to attracting investment, and helping our businesses compete and win."

- Daniel Tisch

President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

"The EOWC and our 103 municipalities across Eastern Ontario are ready to support the ambitious integrated Energy for Generations Plan. We thank Minister Lecce for his visionary approach to achieve affordability, security, reliability, and clean energy through this plan. The EOWC looks forward to working with the Ontario Government, energy sector partners and private industry."

- Bonnie Clark

Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus Chair

"With this blueprint, Ontario has the opportunity to lead the world in both small and large nuclear development. Coupled with our expanding hydroelectric portfolio and other low-carbon technologies, the growth of a reliable provincial grid will also boost economies and strengthen our energy security."

- Nicolle Butcher

President and CEO, OPG

"The Ontario Mining Association welcomes the government’s Integrated Energy Plan as a framework for a clean, reliable, and affordable energy future, while addressing increasing energy needs. We are committed to collaborating with the government and stakeholders, and building equity partnerships with Indigenous communities to support this vision. Mining drives transformational change, benefits Ontario communities, and advances a low-carbon economy across our supply chain. We appreciate the recognition of rising demand for Ontario minerals and support for the energy infrastructure needed to meet this demand. As we invest in innovation, natural gas remains vital for energy security, local jobs, and growth, especially in remote and northern communities. Strategic planning for energy infrastructure not only strengthens Ontario’s leadership in responsible mineral development, it also boosts economic and community prosperity."

- Priya Tandon

Ontario Mining Association

"The EDA welcomes the release of the Integrated Energy Plan as a critical step toward building a more coordinated and prosperous energy future for Ontario. We support a new planning and regulatory framework that prioritizes economic development and electrification in communities across the province. Ontario’s local hydro utilities are ready to do their part in this transformation by enabling grid modernization and resilience, optimizing distributed energy resources, and offering clean energy solutions to our customers."

- Teresa Sarkesian

President & CEO, Electricity Distributors Association (EDA)

"Elexicon welcomes Ontario’s first ever Integrated Energy Plan and is committed to partnering with the Province to build an energy grid that supports a prosperous future for Ontario, including delivering safe and reliably electricity to Elexicon’s nearly 200,000 customers in some of the fastest growing communities in the province."

- Amanda Klein

President and CEO of Elexicon

"The Canadian Nuclear Association strongly supports Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan which affirms the nuclear industry’s role in meeting growing energy needs, generating high-skilled jobs, creating export opportunities, and providing a reliable supply of life-saving medical isotopes. Our industry’s supply chain is innovative, responsive, and built on decades of experience, and we are confident it is well-positioned to support the growth opportunities outlined in this Plan to ensure energy security and prosperity for Ontario."

- George Christidis

President & CEO, Canadian Nuclear Association