Alternative Energy

[Copperfield]

McGuinty Government Sparks Interest In Green Electricity
Renewable Energy Request Popular With Electricity Producers
QUEEN'S PARK, ON, June 24 - In a strong response to a government
request, 90 companies have expressed interest in generating renewable
electricity in Ontario, Energy Minister Dwight Duncan announced today.
"We have received expressions of interest that would total approximately
4,400 megawatts of renewable supply, including wind, solar, water, biomass and
landfill gas - that's almost 15 times the amount of clean, green electricity
we're currently seeking," Duncan said. "I am extremely encouraged by the
industry's positive response to this initiative. This is a solid indication
that we can meet our renewable energy targets, and improve the quality of our
air with greener sources of power."
The McGuinty government has set a target of generating five per cent
(1,350 megawatts) of Ontario's total energy capacity from renewable sources by
2007, and 10 per cent (2,700 megawatts) by 2010. Currently, non-hydro
renewable electricity sources make up less than 1 per cent of Ontario's
overall supply mix.
On April 28, the government initiated a Request for Proposals (RFP) for
300 megawatts of renewable electricity to identify interested proponents.
Successful bidders will have until August 25 to submit final proposals. It is
expected that successful projects could be announced before the end of the
year, with new electricity on-line as early as 2006.
"This interest shows that Ontario's electricity producers are innovative
and environmentally conscious, and can provide consumers with renewable energy
choices," Duncan said. "The range of proposals we expect to receive will allow
us to choose the most viable, cost-effective projects for Ontario's
electricity consumers."
The current RFP for renewable energy will be the first of many
opportunities for energy providers. The government recently introduced
legislation to establish the Ontario Power Authority, which would be able to
enter into contracts with energy producers to meet its supply needs and
targets, including targets for renewable energy.

More information on the RFP can be found by visiting
http://www.ontarioelectricityrfp.ca.