The IESO has launched an Eastern Ontario Bulk Planning engagement to actively involve interested sector participants and Ontario communities in shaping the future of Ontario's energy transmission system.
Given the electrification and decarbonization initiatives that would promote intensification of electricity use and potentially result in substantial demand increase, there is a need to assess whether the bulk transmission system is sufficient to reliably supply the demand growth expected in Eastern Ontario. Additionally, this bulk planning study will explore opportunities to improve transmission system’s capability to deliver new resources located in Eastern Ontario and the capacity transfers to and from Quebec.
With the formalization of the Bulk System Planning Process in 2022, the IESO seeks to enhance transparency and create opportunities for valuable input from communities and sector participants in individual bulk system studies. Participant involvement during the various phases will ensure views and preferences are considered throughout the planning process. This inclusive approach helps establish a strong foundation for successful implementation, enabling a sustainable energy plan that can adapt to future demands.
The overall purpose of this engagement is to develop an Eastern Ontario bulk transmission plan that fosters reliable electricity supply and supports the region's economic growth objectives. By actively participating in this initiative, sector participants have an opportunity to contribute to a more resilient and prosperous energy future for Ontario.
The IESO encourages interested parties to register for public sessions noted below and direct any questions or feedback to IESO Engagement at engagement@ieso.ca.
Anticipated timing for this engagement is presented below.
Date
Engagement Activity
Expected Actions
June 19, 2025
Feedback due on the items discussed during the May 29th engagement session.
May 29, 2025
Public Engagement Webinar
The IESO will provide sector participants and Ontario communities with an update on the Bulk Planning initiatives underway.
Presentation
Feedback Form
The webinar will be broken-up intro two parts:
Part 1 May 29 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.: During this session the IESO will provide an overview of Bulk Transmission Planning, introduce the North of Sudbury module, share updates on the progress of the Northern Ontario Bulk Plan, the Eastern Ontario Bulk Plan and the Ontario-Manitoba Intertie Joint Study, seek feedback and answer questions.
Part 2 May 29 from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.: During this sessions the IESO will share preliminary portfolios of transmission options as part of the South and Central Bulk Study to support future generation connections and demand growth in key areas throughout southern and central Ontario, including the GTA, and to enable a decarbonized power system in the future, seek feedback and answer questions.
