Ontario Supporting Local Energy Planning in Municipalities and Aboriginal Communities
Province Promoting Conservation and Clean Energy
Ontario is supporting local energy planning through the new Municipal Energy Plans and Aboriginal Community Energy Plans programs.
The programs will help small and medium-sized municipalities and Aboriginal communities develop energy plans that focus on increasing conservation and help identify the best energy infrastructure options for a community. Energy plans help municipalities and Aboriginal communities:
- Assess its energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
- Identify opportunities to conserve, improve energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions
- Consider impact of future growth and options for local clean energy generation
- Support economic development by better meeting local energy needs
Engaging municipalities and Aboriginal communities is part of the new Ontario government's plan to build strong communities, powered by clean, reliable and affordable energy.
Quick Facts
- Municipal Energy Plans and Aboriginal Community Energy Plans are optional and will complement the Long-Term Energy Plan and regional energy plans by focusing on unique community needs and goals.
- Successful MEP program applicants will receive funding for 50 per cent of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $90,000.
- Aboriginal communities will be eligible for up to $90,000 to develop a community energy plan, with remote Aboriginal communities eligible for up to $95,000.
Additional Resources
Quotes
“Both the Municipal Energy Plan program and the Aboriginal Community Energy Plan program will help communities identify goals and new opportunities to save money and reduce their environmental footprint.”
Bob Chiarelli
“I’m really pleased to see that the Aboriginal Community Energy Plan is structured to address individual community needs. Improving conservation measures and planning for the use and access to clean, modern and reliable electricity will be significant measures in improving the quality of life and economic prospects of Aboriginal communities. I encourage eligible Aboriginal communities to help plan their energy future by submitting proposals.”
David Zimmer