OGVG applauds province for hydro announcement

LEAMINGTON – The Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG) have issued a statement applauding the Ontario government’s announcement of the development of five new electricity transmission infrastructure projects across Southwest Ontario.

The government announced Monday that they had issued an Order-in-Council declaring three transmission line projects as priorities, streamlining the Ontario Energy Board’s (OEB) regulatory approval process for these lines.

The priority declaration requires the OEB to accept that the three initial lines are needed when assessing whether the projects are in the public interest, expediting the review process so projects can be brought online earlier.

The Minister of Energy also directed the OEB to amend the transmission license of Hydro One Networks Inc. (Hydro One), requiring it to undertake development work and seek approvals for four of the identified transmission lines. Hydro One was previously designated as the transmitter for the Chatham-to-Lakeshore line in 2020.

“The Minister smartly pointed out that Ontario’s clean electricity system, which is more than 90 per cent emission free, is a competitive advantage,” said the statement. “With new transmission projects often facing lengthy development times, these actions will ensure that transmission infrastructure can meet the needs of Southwest Ontario, giving businesses the confidence to expand or invest in their operations and create new jobs.”

“We commend the Government of Ontario for their efforts to create the conditions for economic prosperity. The greenhouse sector remains an opportunity for the province to continue to grow fresh produce for local and export markets. Addressing future energy requirements will be a key component for success so we are especially appreciative of today’s announcement,” said George Gilvesy, Chair of OGVG.

“OGVG and its membership are pleased to see Ontario prioritizing investments in infrastructure that benefit local businesses, agriculture, and the community at large,” addd Joe Sbrocchi, General Manager of OGVG.