Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus welcomes changes in the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024
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The Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) supports Ontario Minister of Energy Todd Smith on his recent announcement regarding the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024.
A press release from the EOWC said the caucus believes the proposed act will promote the long-term viability and success of Eastern Ontario by keeping construction costs down while working towards a net zero energy system in Ontario. The release also said the legislation will ensure stakeholder engagement is increased and regulatory decisions will include considerations that contribute to social and economic outcomes.
According to the EOWC, Eastern Ontario is experiencing significant growth which requires the gas pipeline network to expand. Current thresholds result in delays in natural gas access for development sites in rural municipalities. This legislation will expedite critical infrastructure projects, ensuring continued growth and prosperity in rural communities.
“The EOWC is pleased to see the move toward modernizing regulations that cause unnecessary delays and costs,” said said EOWC chairman, County of Renfrew Warden Peter Emon. “Our region continues to see significant growth and pressures to build. This legislation will get shovels in the ground and support rural opportunities,”
The EOWC believes by modernizing outdated regulations, delays and costs for economic development initiatives will be reduced, benefiting industries seeking to establish or expand in Ontario, transit projects, community expansion, housing developments, and low-carbon fuel blending.
This proposed legislation and the EOWC’s strong support comes following a meeting with Parliamentary Assistant Stéphane Sarrazin, at the January 2024 Rural Ontario Municipal Association Conference around modernizing the construction approval process as a critical EOWC priority.
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