26 Groups Urge Toronto to Reject Ontario’s Energy Plan
A coalition of 26 environmental, health, legal, and community organizations from the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) is urging Toronto City Council to oppose the province’s latest energy strategy. They warn it threatens the city’s climate ambitions and prolongs dependence on fossil fuels.
Concerns Over the Independent Electricity System Operator’s Proposal
On October 31, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) released its final Integrated Regional Resource Plan (IRRP) for Toronto. This plan is seen as a major step backward for the city’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions.
"Despite clear direction from Toronto City Council—which has committed to phasing out the Portlands Energy Centre by 2035 and achieving net-zero by 2040 under the TransformTO plan—the IESO’s proposal takes the city in the opposite direction."
City’s Climate Goals at Risk
- Toronto City Council has pledged to phase out the Portlands Energy Centre by 2035.
- The city aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2040 according to the TransformTO plan.
- The IESO’s IRRP conflicts with these commitments, potentially locking residents into fossil fuel use for decades.
Indigenous Territories Acknowledgment
The coalition’s statement recognizes Toronto as situated on the traditional lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabeg, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples.
"A broad coalition of 26 environmental, health, legal, and community organizations across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) is calling on Toronto City Council to reject the province’s new energy plan."
Author’s summary: A diverse coalition warns that Ontario’s new energy plan threatens Toronto’s net-zero goals by extending fossil fuel reliance and ignoring the city’s clear climate commitments.