The Green Energy Act was created to expand Ontario's production of renewable energy, encourage energy conservation and promote the creation of clean-energy green jobs.
The act aims to expand Ontario's renewable energy production and create clean-energy jobs by:
- creating a feed-in-tariff program that guarantees rates for energy generated from renewable sources - such as solar photovoltaic, biogas, biomass, landfill gas, on-shore and off-shore wind and water power; minimum levels of Ontario labour and materials are required to qualify for the program
- establishing the right to connect to the electricity grid for all renewable energy projects - including small-scale energy generators, such as homes and schools - that meet technical, economic and regulatory requirements
- establishing a "one-stop" streamlined approvals process for small-scale renewable energy projects that meet regulatory requirements
- implementing a "smart" power grid to support the development of new renewable energy projects, and to prepare Ontario for new technologies such as electric cars.
The act promotes conservation in Ontario through:
- creating new energy-efficient standards for Ontario's building code and for household appliances
- providing financial assistance for small-scale renewable energy projects
- working with local utilities to help them reach conservation targets
- ensuring conservation measures protect low-income Ontarians.