As the Ontario Power Authority grinds through 1022 applications for feed in tariff contracts (plus about 3200 microFits), the Ministry of the Environment is gearing up to process applications for renewable energy approvals. About 91 renewable energy projects have been approved since 2003, including 45 wind, six solar, 23 bioenergy, and 17 water projects. (Approvals for two major solar farms in Arnprior were issued in December.) However, work is just beginning on renewable energy approvals under the new rules, brought in under the Green Energy Act. MOE hopes to issue the first REA by March 31, to a transition project, and has already received nine notices of intent for projects commencing under the new rules.
How will the new rules work? Don’t miss Dianne’s presentation on Renewable Energy approvals.