Please accept the attached…

Please accept the attached full submission as our comment to the government’s request for feedback on a consultation to support the important role for natural gas in Ontario’s energy system and economy, which is being submitted on behalf of OHBA and its 28 local associations including but not limited to the Building and Land Development Association (BILD), West End Home Builders’ Association (WE HBA), Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association (GO HBA), and London Home Builders’ Association (LHBA).

OHBA supports a measured approach to Ontario’s energy transition; one that leverages existing natural gas infrastructure and invests in lower-carbon alternatives such as renewable natural gas and hydrogen – in addition to building incremental electricity supply. An integrated approach to Ontario’s energy transition, where pipes and wires work together, ensures Ontario maintains an energy system that is resilient and cost-effective while supporting the province’s decarbonization efforts.

OHBA is supportive of the work the government is undertaking, in that it is recognizing that a strong and balanced energy mix is critical to achieve Ontario’s goals of a reliable, safe and affordable energy system. OHBA reiterates that Ontario needs an all-of-the-above approach to integrated planning, ensuring that all households and businesses have the necessary flexibility to meet their energy needs according to their budget and timelines.

We continue to applaud the government for recognizing the need for securing energy choices for Ontario’s communities, being vital to support economic development, energy access and reliability while undertaking a measured step toward energy transition.