Should Some Renewable Energy Projects Skip the Approval Process?
Official title: Amending the Renewable Energy Approval regulation to remove certain project types from the process and streamline the review of Natural Heritage Assessments
Ontario wants to speed up renewable energy approvals. The proposal would exempt some projects from the full approval process if they're already covered by other permits. It would also let qualified professionals sign off on environmental assessments instead of requiring government review.
Why This Matters
Want more solar panels and wind turbines in Ontario? This could speed that up. But it also means less government oversight of environmental impacts. If you care about clean energy or wildlife protection, this one's worth watching.
What Could Change
Some renewable energy projects would no longer need a Renewable Energy Approval if they're already permitted under other processes. The Ministry of Natural Resources would stop reviewing wildlife assessments—qualified consultants would self-certify instead. Projects could get approved faster, but with less government scrutiny.
Key Issues
- Should renewable energy projects be exempt from approval if they're already covered by other permits?
- Should qualified professionals replace government review of wildlife assessments?
- What are the anticipated costs or benefits to Ontario businesses from these changes?
How to Participate
- Read the proposal summary to understand the proposed changes to renewable energy approvals.
- Review the current Renewable Energy Approvals regulation to see what's being changed.
- Submit your feedback through the comment form by the deadline.
Submit Your Input
Questions Being Asked (1)
- What are the anticipated benefits or costs to Ontario businesses from these proposed changes?