The Ontario government issued its new long-term energy plan (LTEP) yesterday, pledging to buy up to 300MW of new wind in both 2014 and 2015 and aiming for the release of the 2014 request for proposals in the first quarter of next year.
The new purchases fall short of what the industry had asked for during LTEP consultations. It argued for 2GW of new wind purchases between now and 2018, and a target that would see at least 15% of electricity demand met by wind energy by 2031.
The LTEP promises only to consider expanded targets for wind and other renewables through annual reviews of supply and demand.
Although the plan falls short of what the industry wanted, the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CANWEA) welcomed the new purchase plans.
CANWEA president Robert Hornung said: "We agree with the government of Ontario that new wind energy is a good choice when new electricity supply is required, and we look forward to working with the government to finalise the details of the initial procurement.
"Ontario's wind energy industry is well positioned to provide Ontario with cost-competitive and affordable power through this process."
.png)
.png)
