I am writing regarding the…

I am writing regarding the changes to the Ontario Electricity Act that repeal provisions that prioritize renewable energy.

We are in a climate emergency and I need my government to start acting like we are in an emergency. Canada has committed to certain global targets to reduce GHG emissions and without renewables, there is no way that we will be able to meet our commitments and do our fair share. The rest of the world is ramping up efforts to reduce GHG emissions to reduce the most severe effects of climate change. Ontario will be moving backwards if we don't prioritize renewable energy.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) report just released Net Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector, states “Renewable energy technologies like solar and wind are the key to reducing emissions in the electricity sector, which is today the single largest source of CO2 emissions.”[1] Prioritizing the development of clean renewable energy – both within Ontario and by connecting Ontario to Quebec hydro power - has multiple benefits for Ontario and Ontarians. These renewable sources of energy ar cheaper and the costs are predicted to keep falling. Quebec Hydro power at the offered cost of 5c per kwh is also significantly cheaper than the 9.6c per kwh for nuclear energy, a cost that is projected to rise to pay for the refurbishment of nuclear power plants.[2] These renewable energies will also reduce air pollution, improving the health of communities across Ontario and decreasing public health costs.[3] Ontario should do it's part to meet it's new climate target of 45% emission reductions by 2030, which is still less than the needed 60%.

I urge the provincial government to prioritize people and the planet. We all benefit when decisions are made with future generations in mind, rather than the market, which benefits a few individuals now at a far higher cost for everyone else later. We have the technology to meet our targets and we need to do our part to mitigate climate change.