The government is building on a decade of achievements with this LTEP, and is fine-tuning its policies to meet the future needs of Ontario. Ontario has virtually eliminated coal from our electricity system. The phasing out of coal is the single largest climate change initiative in North America.

Through this LTEP, the government will ensure the continued delivery of a cost-effective, reliable and clean energy supply, one that is shaped by community engagement and emphasizes conservation and demand management before the construction of new generation.

The government will build on the initiatives it has already put in place to keep electricity rates as low as possible. These have included the Ontario Clean Energy Benefit, the early phase out of coal-fired generation, and the decision not to proceed at this time with the construction of new nuclear facilities.

The government has built flexibility into this LTEP. Forecasting is not an exact science and plans need to be flexible to meet changing conditions. That’s why Ontario is committing resources to meet a lower demand forecast while maintaining flexibility to respond to higher needs. Overbuilding the system will unnecessarily increase electricity rates.

Annual energy reporting will also help us prudently plan for more resources if and when they are needed. The Ontario Energy Report will give Ontarians an update of the energy supply/demand picture for the province, and will allow the government to review its progress in implementing the LTEP.

The LTEP will continue to be updated every three years, and these annual reports will give everyone an opportunity to monitor progress for course corrections and to understand developments that will be important in the next formal review.