What principles should the…

What principles should the government provide to the OEB to help inform the Board’s ongoing development of natural gas connection policies?

The main principle of the OEB should be to promote and maintain a diverse, competitive, and secure energy market in the future. Natural gas is the base of the economy, and other forms of energy are required for stable operation (electricity generation, Gasoline/Diesel/aircraft fuel production). Natural gas is the only form of hydrocarbon that can be transported in large quantities via pipeline across Canada. Our liquid crude pipelines run through Michigan.
 
What role should natural gas play in supporting energy affordability and customer choice in residential and small commercial applications (e.g., space and water heating)?

Natural gas must be maintained as an option for homes to promote competition and affordability. No one can predict future energy costs, so choice will always play a role. In addition, natural gas is rarely affected by weather events and is more stable than electricity. Everyone has experienced a power outage, but very few people have ever run out of natural gas at their homes.

What role should natural gas play in supporting economic development in Ontario’s industrial and agricultural sectors, including those processes that may be difficult to electrify?

Many applications require energy densities that cannot be supplied by electricity or other hydrocarbons. Large projects are often placed near energy sources. If we reduce the number of areas serviced with natural gas, we will reduce the number of future large projects coming to Ontario.

 For natural gas expansion projects receiving government support, should the approvals processes be streamlined to support affordable home heating for Ontarians? In what ways?

Yes, the approval process should be streamlined to support affordable home heating. Justified increases in supply will reduce the cost to homes in the long run.

What role should natural gas play in supporting power system security and resiliency?
When was the last time your house ran out of natural gas? It is relatively secure and resilient.
 
What role should natural gas play in offsetting higher GHG-emitting fuel sources?
The only way to do this is through network expansion or promoting technologies that allow natural gas to be delivered to houses via trucks to replace propane and heating oil.