OREC Provides Critical Feedback on IESO’s Long-Term Energy Plan
The Ottawa Renewable Energy Co-operative (OREC) has submitted its official feedback to the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) regarding Ontario’s proposed Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The submission highlights the crucial role that community-owned energy projects must play in Ontario’s evolving electricity system.
Key Recommendations:
OREC’s submission focuses on three essential areas for improving Ontario’s energy future:
- Prioritizing Community Power Projects
- Implementing dedicated procurement targets for community-owned renewable energy
- Creating pathways for First Nations and community organizations to participate in energy projects
- Developing procurement mechanisms specific to community-scale initiatives
- Supporting Distributed Energy Resources
- Enhancing virtual net metering to allow broader community participation
- Investing in community-scale battery storage solutions
- Creating more accessible grid connection opportunities for small-scale renewable projects
- Strengthening Energy Democracy
- Ensuring that energy planning includes diverse stakeholder voices
- Developing programs that ensure the benefits of the energy transition extend to all Ontarians
- Establishing policy frameworks that support local ownership of energy resources
Broader Context:
The IESO’s planning process represents a crucial opportunity to shape Ontario’s electricity future. As we face increasing demand and aging infrastructure, OREC believes community participation is essential for building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable energy system.
Their cooperative model demonstrates how local investment and ownership can accelerate renewable energy adoption while keeping benefits within communities. Ontario’s long-term energy planning must recognize and support these community-based approaches.
About OREC:
Ottawa Renewable Energy Co-operative is dedicated to developing community-owned renewable energy projects. Since 2010, they have invested over $13 million in local solar projects, creating multiple benefits for their 900+ members and the communities they serve.
Based on Our Feedback: Ontario’s proposed Integrated Energy Resource Plan by Roger Peters
Interview Request – Ottawa Renewable Energy Co‑operative & Green NOVA Project
Dear OREC Team,
I hope you are well.
My name is Seoyeon Kim, team leader of “Green NOVA” at Chungbuk National University in South Korea. Our research explores bioenergy-based startup models, green job creation, and community acceptance strategies—drawing insights from Canadian cooperative energy initiatives.
OREC’s pioneering community-owned renewable energy model and successful integration of local participation, FIT revenue sharing, and cooperative governance greatly align with our project’s goals. We would be honored to arrange a 30–45 minute interview to discuss:
– Cooperative membership and investment structure
– FIT-based financial model and benefits to members
– Community and local government engagement strategies
– Operational challenges and solutions
– Local green job creation outcomes and transferability to Chungbuk
We will be visiting Ottawa between July 5 – August 20, 2025, and would be grateful for any time at your convenience.
Thank you very much for considering our request. Your expertise would provide essential guidance for implementing similar models in our region.
Warm regards,
Seoyeon Kim
Team Leader, Green NOVA
Chungbuk National University