26 Groups Urge Toronto to Reject Province’s Energy Plan
A coalition of 26 environmental, health, legal, and community organizations across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) has called on Toronto City Council to oppose the province’s new energy plan. They warn that the plan threatens the city’s climate targets and extends reliance on fossil fuels for decades.
Coalition Members
- Environmental Defence
- Ontario Clean Air Alliance
- Toronto East Residents for Renewable Energy (TERRE)
- Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE)
- Seniors for Climate Action Now! Toronto
Concerns Over the Energy Plan
The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) released its final Integrated Regional Resource Plan (IRRP) for Toronto on October 31, which the coalition states is a significant setback for the city’s efforts to reach 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.”
Context and Location
The coalition's statement acknowledges that Toronto rests on the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabeg, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples.
Impact of the Plan
- The plan sustains fossil fuel dependency beyond current commitments.
- It conflicts with Toronto’s climate strategy to reduce emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.
- It jeopardizes the planned closure of the Portlands Energy Centre, a key step toward clean energy goals.
The coalition urges the City Council to prioritize climate responsibilities and reject the IESO's proposed energy strategy.
Author’s Summary
The coalition of organizations warns that Toronto’s current provincial energy plan undermines vital climate commitments by perpetuating fossil fuel use and hindering progress to net-zero emissions.