Directive issued to the IESO for upgrades to existing renewable projects, Conservation First Framework and support programs
June 16, 2016
On June 10, the Minister of Energy issued a directive to the IESO with respect to the LRP II procurement, the design and delivery of conservation programs under the ongoing Conservation First Framework, as well as funding for support programs. As outlined in the directive, the IESO shall:
- Increase the LRP II overall procurement target to 980 megawatts (MW) by re-allocating 50 MW of capacity from prior procurement targets that have not been met, as well as explore opportunities to procure and, if feasible, procure additional generation resulting from technological upgrades and optimization of existing renewable generation facilities.
- Design, fund and deliver two new province-wide conservation programs in consultation with distributors. These new programs – a pay-for-performance program for multi-distributor consumers and a whole home pilot program for residential consumers will help local electric utilities achieve their Conservation First Framework targets, address customer needs and support Ontario's climate change objectives.
- Allocate the $4 million in unspent support programs funds from the 2015 budget to the $10 million annual support programs budget for 2016, increasing the 2016 budget to $14 million.