Ontario's local hydro utilities smash provincial conservation goals

Mid-way through Ontario's Conservation First Framework, 69 per cent of target already met

TORONTO, Aug. 30, 2018 /CNW/ - The Electricity Distributors Association (EDA) applauds its members, Ontario's local hydro utilities, on exceeding targets set out in the Government of Ontario's 2015-2020 Conservation First Framework, which maps out the province's energy conservation goals for the period. Just past the mid-way point, Ontario's local electricity utilities have hit 69 per cent of their overall target.

The Framework emphasizes coordinated efforts through all stages of energy planning, with the aim of reducing 8.7 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity consumption in Ontario by the end of 2020. Local hydro utilities are charged with the lion's share of reductions, carrying responsibility for 7 TWh of the total.

According to the province's Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), the body that manages Ontario's power grid, local hydro utilities achieved 1.8 TWh of energy savings in 2017, conservation's best performing year. When combined with 2015-2016 results, these utilities have achieved 4.9 TWh of energy savings.

"The mid-term results show positive progress in promoting a culture of conservation across the province," said Brian Wilkie, Chair of the EDA Board of Directors. "To put it in perspective, the savings could power 500,000 homes in the province ? a massive accomplishment."

Besides their responsibility for meeting lofty conservation goals, Ontario's local hydro utilities were required to hit the stretch targets on a tighter budget than ever before. Results were achieved at the lowest cost on record, just 2.5?3 cents a kilowatt hour.

"These impressive figures show the strength of Ontario's local electricity distributors in delivering on government commitments and serving customer needs," said EDA President & CEO Teresa Sarkesian. "The EDA is working actively with the Government of Ontario to promote local hydro utilities as key players to deliver on conservation, not only within the current Framework but also well beyond 2020."

About the EDA
The EDA is a trusted and vital source for advocacy, insights and information for Ontario's local hydro utilities, the municipally and privately-owned companies that deliver safe, reliable electricity services to more five million homes, businesses and public institutions across the province. Learn more at www.eda-on.ca

SOURCE Electricity Distributors Association