How Should Ontario Prepare Its Power Grid for Growing Electricity Demand?
Official title: Review of Ontario's Electricity Distribution Sector
Ontario's electricity grid needs massive upgrades to handle growing demand from new housing and electric vehicles. Local power companies may need $103-120 billion by 2050, but many are hitting their borrowing limits. The government wants ideas on how to fund this buildout, whether to allow private investment in municipal utilities, and how to keep electricity affordable.
Why This Matters
Your electricity bill could change depending on how Ontario funds grid upgrades. If you're buying an EV or heat pump, reliable power matters more than ever. Homeowners in new developments need infrastructure that can handle modern energy demands. This review will shape whether rates stay affordable or climb to cover massive investments.
What Could Change
Private investors could be allowed to buy stakes in municipal power companies for the first time. Smaller utilities might merge or share services to cut costs. New financing models could shift some infrastructure costs from ratepayers to taxpayers, or vice versa. Governance rules for local distribution companies may be overhauled.
Key Issues
- How should Ontario fund $103-120 billion in grid upgrades by 2050?
- Should private investors be allowed to invest in municipally owned utilities?
- What ownership and governance models balance municipal interests with financial sustainability?
- How can local distribution companies improve efficiency and share services?
How to Participate
- Review the consultation details on the Environmental Registry of Ontario posting.
- Submit your feedback through the ERO comment system by December 15, 2025.