The Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) has thrown its weight behind the Minister of Energy, Todd Smith, in his recent announcement concerning the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act, 2024. This proposed legislation aims to bolster the long-term sustainability and prosperity of eastern Ontario by curbing construction expenses while striving for a net-zero energy system across the province. The act is set to enhance stakeholder engagement and ensure that regulatory decisions take into account factors contributing to both social and economic progress.
The burgeoning growth in Eastern Ontario necessitates an expansion of the gas pipeline network. Present thresholds often lead to delays in providing natural gas access to development sites in rural municipalities. The new legislation seeks to expedite crucial infrastructure projects, thereby facilitating sustained growth and prosperity in rural communities.
EOWC Chair, Peter Emon, expressed satisfaction with the initiative, stating, “The EOWC welcomes the steps taken to modernize regulations that impede progress and inflate costs. With our region experiencing significant growth and mounting pressures for development, this legislation will catalyze construction activities and bolster opportunities in rural areas.”
By streamlining outdated regulations, the proposed legislation aims to mitigate delays and reduce costs associated with economic development ventures. Industries seeking to establish or expand operations in Ontario, transit initiatives, community expansion endeavors, housing projects, and low-carbon fuel blending efforts stand to benefit from these measures.
The EOWC’s resolute backing of the Keeping Energy Costs Down Act follows discussions held with Parliamentary Assistant Stéphane Sarrazin during the Rural Ontario Municipal Association Conference in January 2024. During this meeting, modernizing the construction approval process emerged as a key priority for the EOWC.
The proposed legislation underscores a concerted effort to foster an environment conducive to economic vitality and sustainability in Eastern Ontario, positioning the region for continued growth and prosperity in the years ahead.
(Written by: Emma Butler)