Overview

Affordable energy is a serious issue in Ontario. Rural Ontario is the hardest hit by energy inflation with most businesses, residents and farms relying on electricity, propane or heating oil to support their way of life. Energy is one of the largest input costs on Ontario farms. Rural Ontario pays a disproportionately higher amount for electricity delivery charges than urban residents.

The expansion of natural gas is the single most important investment Ontario can make to support a vibrant and thriving Ontario.

Farms and rural businesses need affordable energy to stay competitive, grow Ontario’s economy and support local communities.  We can build stronger, more vibrant rural communities when they have access to affordable energy. Expanded natural gas infrastructure would save Ontarians $1 billion every year. That money can be reinvested in communities to grow our economy. And that’s an investment that will reduce pressure on the electrical grid, reduce greenhouse gases and help alleviate growth stress in urban communities.

OFA participates in many industry and advisory groups to ensure rural and agricultural communities have a voice in the design and implementation of rural energy policy. These groups include saveONenergy Agricultural Working Group, Anchor Alliance for Competitive Hydro Rates, Hydro One Customer Advisory Panel, and participation at IESO stakeholder sessions and Ontario Energy Board Regulatory Board reviews.

OFA Position

OFA believes the provincial government must find permanent solutions to deliver affordable electricity rates for farms and businesses to keep rural Ontario competitive.

Rural Ontario needs access to clean, reliable and cost-effective energy options like those available in urban centres. Natural gas infrastructure throughout rural Ontario is vital to the realization of a renewable natural gas fuel standard. Rural residential and business electricity customers need solutions to remedy the excessive costs incurred for rural delivery.