Dear Nik Spohr, As a…

Dear Nik Spohr,

As a concerned citizen, I strongly recommend that Ontario's Natural Gas Policy Statement establish a clear pathway to reduce reliance on natural gas and ultimately phase it out by or before 2050. This will not only help to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts of the natural gas lifecycle, but also improve air quality, a significant health concern.

I recommend transitioning away from natural gas in Ontario’s electricity grid and as the primary source
for space and water heating. In particular, the policy needs to provide a rapid timeline for phasing out gas furnaces and water heaters from new builds that is in-line with net zero goals. A phase-out must be accompanied by investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and incentive programs that also support retrofits of existing buildings and homes. On a personal note, our family was able to switch to a heat pump last year thanks to the Greener Homes rebate program. We would not have been able to afford the switch without this program.

In this time of uncertainty, renewable energy and electrification can also facilitate greater energy security.

Thank you for your consideration.