Advancing the Northern Hydro Program
April 27, 2026
The IESO is announcing the launch of the Northern Hydro Program (NHP), adding another critical component to the IESO’s strategy to meet unprecedented forecasted demand through the use of the Resource Adequacy Framework.
The NHP will secure over 1,000 megawatts from approximately 26 large, hydroelectric generating facilities in Northern Ontario, providing considerable value for ratepayers with expected savings to re-contract facilities at rates 20 per cent below those under previous contracts compared to extending current contract terms. The program is intended to support the continued operation of these facilities with new 20-year contracts, which play a key role in serving local and system-wide electricity demand while contributing clean, reliable energy to Ontario’s power system.
Final Program Documents are now available, including the Program Rules, Contract, Application Form and other Prescribed Forms. With the launch of the program, applications are now being accepted in accordance with the requirements and timelines set out in the Program Rules.
Additional information on eligibility, application requirements and key dates is available in the final Program Documents on the IESO Northern Hydro Program web page.