Ontario is seeing strong economic growth and great new manufacturing investments. We only have to look at the $5-billion investment made by Stellantis in building a new EV battery plant as a positive example. This trend toward a greener electrical transportation sector and the return of manufacturing jobs to Ontario is positive news, Speaker.

As the economy grows and greater electrification of industry continues, my constituents in Whitby are wondering about the strength of our energy grid for the future. Can the Minister of Energy assure my constituents and all Ontarians that we will have the power we need for the future?

My constituents are pleased that Ontario is increasing the electrification of our energy grid, from transportation and increased EV uptake to green steelmaking. However, my constituents want to know why the province will procure some natural gas generation as a component of the overall procurement strategy.

Minister, is procuring natural gas generation a step in the opposite direction?

Thanks for the thoughtful question.

The experts at Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator have been clear: Generation from natural gas plays a key role as a flexible, adaptable source of electricity that can respond quickly to periods of heightened demand.

The member is correct that we can’t move backwards—and we’re moving forward on the days that we’re bringing manufacturing jobs that were once fleeing our province back to our jurisdiction and sent electricity prices skyrocketing.

That’s why we’re looking at every option to ensure that Ontario doesn’t experience blackouts and brownouts. By maintaining our reliable and affordable grid, we’re also enabling electrification in other sectors, like transportation, resulting in a net reduction in emissions in Ontario.

Just one example is green steelmaking. As he mentioned in his previous question, Algoma and Dofasco switching to electric arc furnaces is going to mean emissions reductions equivalent to taking two million cars off the road.

We’re going to ensure that we have the reliable, affordable, clean and safe power that Ontario needs to keep our economy moving forward.