The County of Elgin…

The County of Elgin recognizes the critical role natural gas plays in supporting Ontario's commercial, industrial, and residential sectors. As the backbone of the province’s energy supply, natural gas ensures system reliability during peak demand periods, contributes to grid resilience as new industries emerge, and complements renewable energy sources, facilitating the electrification of key sectors. It is integral to maintaining a stable electricity generation mix, helping to meet peak demand and supporting cost-effective electrification in industries like transportation and heavy manufacturing.

Elgin acknowledges the importance of reducing carbon emissions and supports Ontario’s transition away from fossil fuels. However, we recognize that this is a process, not an immediate shift. Until renewable energy options can reliably meet the energy needs of farm equipment and other rural requirements, natural gas remains an essential energy source. Energy is one of the largest operational costs for farmers, rural residents, and local businesses, and reliable access to natural gas could result in savings of over $1 billion annually across Ontario's rural communities.

In order to attract new investment, it is crucial to offer flexibility to potential investors, as not all industries can rely solely on electricity. Many manufacturers prefer a balanced energy mix and do not want to depend on one source. A diverse energy portfolio—where natural gas plays a key role—provides the flexibility needed for businesses to plan for long-term financial stability. This flexibility is also vital in high-growth areas of our communities, where housing is urgently needed. These regions cannot rely solely on the electrical grid, as the demand on the system would be unsustainable. Natural gas offers a more affordable, reliable alternative for homeowners, reducing pressure on the grid and creating the capacity needed for future growth.

The availability of natural gas is also a key factor in the ability of rural areas to attract and retain new industries. Without reliable access to affordable natural gas, potential industrial growth may be diverted to areas with established energy infrastructure, limiting economic opportunities in rural Ontario. Expanding natural gas infrastructure would not only lower energy costs for local businesses but also make these regions more competitive in attracting investment and new industries. Additionally, it would enable the production of clean biogas and renewable natural gas for delivery through existing pipelines. Expanding access to affordable natural gas is crucial for the economic vitality and long-term sustainability of rural Ontario.