Excerpt:
1.6.10.1 Energy Supply
This section would effectively tie local planning authorities to promote renewable energy systems even though they have no say into if, where, when or how they should be approved. Many municipalities have been resistant to green energy projects because of this loss of control. Municipalities should not be directed to promote or provide opportunities for the development of energy supply when Ontario has a surplus of power projected far into the future[1].
Recommendation 1:
Planning authorities should consider opportunities for the development of energy supply including electricity generation facilities, to accommodate current and projected needs, and promote renewable energy systems, when and where necessary.
1.7.1 (j) Long-Term Economic Prosperity
Under the current Green Energy Act and Green Economy Act, municipalities have no say if or where a green energy project is located, so requiring promotion of renewable energy at this time is not recommended.
Recommendation 2:
(j) promoting energy conservation.
1.8.1(f)(2) Energy Conservation, Air Quality and Climate Change
Renewable energy should only be considered in areas where there will be no or minimal negative social or environmental impacts.
Recommendation 3:
2. consider opportunities for the use of renewable energy in areas where there will be no or minimal negative social, ecological or environmental impacts.
[1] Reconnecting Supply and Demand, How Improving Electricity Pricing can Help Integrate a Changing Supply Mix, Increase Efficiency and Empower Customers, Report of the Chair of the Electricity Market Forum, George Vegh, December 2011, P-3 and 4.