IESO acknowledges that the Northern Ontario Connection Study is proposed on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Cree and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis people. We are thankful to the First Nations, Métis and Inuit people who have cared for these territories since time immemorial and who continue to contribute to the strength of Ontario and to all communities across the province.
Purpose of Study
The IESO has launched an engagement to actively involve interested Indigenous communities, municipalities, sector participants and Ontario communities on the Northern Ontario Connection Study. The study covers a geographic area over 1,000 km in size, passing through the Greenstone-Marathon electricity planning subregion (Marathon to Whitesand) up to Fort Severn in the far north.
The Northern Ontario Connection Study will develop options to connect remote First Nations communities to the grid that currently rely on diesel generators for electricity, improve reliability for First Nation communities that are already grid-connected, support critical minerals mining development in the region, and enable the development of new hydro and renewable resources. The study was initiated in response to a request from the government of Ontario, and a final report will be released, timing is TBD.
The purpose of this engagement is to increase awareness and understanding of the study and seek feedback. Input and feedback will help inform the government’s planning to ensure future access to a cleaner and reliable electricity supply to Northern Ontario and further develop options for meeting the region’s future electricity needs.
By actively participating in this initiative, Indigenous communities, municipalities, and sector participants have an opportunity to contribute to a more resilient and prosperous energy future for Ontario. The IESO seeks to enhance transparency and create opportunities for valuable input from communities and sector participants. Participant involvement will ensure views and preferences are considered. This inclusive approach helps establish a strong foundation for successful implementation, enabling a sustainable energy plan that can adapt to future demands.
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.
