The agri-food and manufacturing sectors in southwestern Ontario won’t have to worry about a lack of power for the foreseeable future.
Hydro One, with support from the Ontario government, has finished constructing the Chatham to Lakeshore Transmission Line which will provide 400 megawatts to the electricity network, roughly the same amount needed to power the entire city of Windsor.
The project ended up finishing a year ahead of schedule and $30 million under the expected budget.
Stephen Lecce, Ontario Minister of Energy and Electrification, explained at a news conference on Monday that this project will provide power to all the new people and businesses who move to the area in the near future. While the line will be a big benefit in the future, Lecce also believes it will be helpful now.
“We have massive energy demands in the region because of local councils and the province working together to attract and retain investment,” he said.
Energy demand in southwestern Ontario is projected to quadruple by 2035.
One major hurdle is the rising price to build, especially in Chatham-Kent.
Industrial, commercial, and institutional costs are set to increase from $3.51 per square foot to $8.30 per square foot. By 2029, greenhouses will see development charges for water and wastewater rise from $0.36 per square foot to $12.74.
Lecce explained the province is doing what it can to help lower prices. He noted there are many factors causing prices to increase, but specifically took time to call out the federal government’s carbon tax.
“It’s unacceptable and obviously we oppose it and we’ll continue to stand against any increase that undermines food security and undermines families,” he said.
Lecce added the province’s plans to stabilize energy rates and focus on competitive procurement should also help in the years to come.