Planning in Northwest Ontario

Map of Ontario showing 21 electricity planning regions

Area Overview

The Northwest region includes the districts of Kenora, Rainy River, and Thunder Bay, bounded by Lake Superior to the south, the Marathon area to the east, and the Manitoba border to the west. The local distribution companies and transmitters providing service to customers in the area include:

  • Atikokan Hydro
  • Fort Francis Power Corporation
  • Hydro One Networks Inc.
  • Sioux Lookout Hydro
  • Synergy North
  • Wataynikaneyap Power

Community Engagement

The IESO engages with local and regional communities to seek input to help inform planning activities.

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Participate in the Northwest Engagement

Regional Planning Progress Update

To keep pace with the rapid growth and economic development in Northwest Ontario, the IESO has launched a new streamlined Northwest Integrated Regional Resource Plan (IRRP), moving directly into the next phase of planning. This single regional plan, covering the entire Northwest region, has commenced on September 22, 2025.

It builds on the August 2025 Northwest Region Integrated Regional Resources Plan Addendum, which outlines electricity system needs in the North of Dryden sub-region over a 25-year horizon (2025 to 2050). The Addendum itself built on the previous Northwest Integrated Regional Resource Plan and ongoing bulk system plans, continuing efforts to ensure reliable electricity supply across the region.

Find out more information on how the regional planning process works

Key Resources