Positive Outlook for Ontario's Electricity System

TORONTO, Dec. 12, 2013 /CNW/ - The outlook for Ontario's bulk electricity grid is positive over the next year and a half, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) said in its latest 18-Month Outlook.

The report anticipates adequate supply levels and transmission resources to meet provincial demand under both normal and extreme weather conditions.

Between December 2013 and May 2015, more than 3,300 MW of renewable resources are expected to be added to the system. At the same time, the province will close nearly 2,150 MW of generation through the retirement of its remaining coal-fired generators.

The flexible resources to adapt to this evolving fuel mix have been found through the maneuverability of nuclear units, demand response measures and new tools for managing wind and solar variability.

"The IESO will continue to look for new opportunities to add flexibility into the market to support reliable and efficient operation of the electricity grid," said Bruce Campbell, President and Chief Executive Officer of the IESO.

Electricity demand will remain relatively flat over the period of the report, as population and economic growth are mitigated by conservation initiatives and growth in embedded generation capacity, which is expected to reach 2,500 MW by May 2015. Generation embedded in distribution systems serves to reduce demand on the bulk power system.

The IESO issues 18-Month Outlook reports every three months. The reports assess the reliability and operability of Ontario's power system. They are designed to advise market participants about reliability issues, assess potential adverse conditions and report on initiatives being put in place to improve reliability. The full report can be accessed on the IESO website: www.ieso.ca/18MonthOutlookDec2013.

The IESO is responsible for managing Ontario's bulk electricity system and operating the wholesale market. For more information, please visit www.ieso.ca.

SOURCE: Independent Electricity System Operator

Alexandra Campbell
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