Ottawa Embraces Green Energy: Four New Solar Projects Greenlit by City Council

Ottawa is set to significantly boost its renewable energy capacity with the city council's approval of four new solar projects. This decision marks a crucial step in meeting the growing demand for electricity, driven by both business expansion and a rising population across Ontario. The approved projects, located in Kanata North and West Carleton-March, now await provincial-level approval to become operational.

Key Takeaways

• Four new solar energy projects have received municipal support confirmation (MSC) from Ottawa City Council.

• The projects are located in Kanata North and West Carleton-March.

• Approval is a prerequisite for developers to submit proposals to the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO).

• The move aims to address increasing electricity demand from businesses and residents.

• Experts anticipate further growth in renewable energy projects across Ontario.

Boosting Renewable Energy Capacity

City council has granted municipal support confirmation (MSC) to four solar energy projects, a move that could pave the way for increased renewable energy generation in the region. The projects include the Dunrobin Solar Project, the Carp Airport Solar Project, Kanata Solar I, and Kanata Solar II. This approval comes after a temporary pause on new renewable energy facilities over the summer.

Addressing Growing Electricity Demand

Kanata North Coun. Cathy Curry highlighted the critical need for reliable energy, especially for attracting and supporting businesses in her tech-centric ward. "It's a totally different world now. [Businesses] won't even relocate, they won't expand unless they know they can be guaranteed that power," Curry stated. She also emphasized the importance of green energy to meet the requirements of international companies with stricter environmental regulations.

The Provincial Context

Before these projects can move forward, they must secure approval at the provincial level from the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), the body responsible for managing Ontario's electricity system. The IESO requires MSCs from municipalities before developers can submit their provincial procurement proposals. This process is vital for maintaining the reliability of the provincial grid while managing costs.

Future Outlook for Solar Power

Experts like Karin Hinzer, an electrical engineering professor at the University of Ottawa, and John Kirkwood, president of the Ottawa Renewable Energy Co-operative (OREC), are optimistic about the future of solar energy. They point to falling costs, improving technology, and the increasing demand for electricity due to population growth across Ontario. Kirkwood noted that newer solar panels are more efficient, and he believes solar energy is becoming a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional sources like nuclear and natural gas. As of May 2025, solar power accounted for only 2.2 percent of Ontario's electricity generation, but this could see significant growth.

Sources

• Sunny days ahead for Ottawa solar projects as 4 get council's go-ahead, CBC.