Ford government ramps up energy spending ahead of Ontario election
Premier Doug Ford's government has pledged more than $17 billion for energy projects as it seeks a third term in the province's general election next week, reversing past decisions and betting heavily on nuclear power and natural gas.
Fatima Syed reports for The Narwhal.
In short:
- Ontario's government has committed $10.9 billion to energy savings programs, $2 billion to hydroelectric upgrades, and $285 million to a controversial pumped storage project.
- Nuclear energy is a central focus, with plans to build a new plant in Port Hope and refurbish the Pickering facility, despite concerns over long-term waste storage.
- The province continues to support fossil fuel infrastructure, overriding regulatory decisions and ignoring expert recommendations to move away from natural gas.
Key quote:
“We need more long-term vision to build our energy security and we need governments to think beyond two to three-year cycles to think about our kids and grandkids.”
— Stephen Lecce, Ontario energy minister
Why this matters:
Ontario's energy policy will shape the province’s environmental and economic future. The government’s push for nuclear and natural gas risks increasing emissions and long-term waste challenges, while its shifting stance on renewables raises concerns about stability. With electricity demand expected to grow 75% by 2050, decisions made now will have lasting consequences for energy affordability, sustainability and public health.
