Proposed Battery Energy Storage Systems

The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) manages Ontario's power system. After more than a decade of strong supply, Ontario is entering a period of emerging electricity system needs, driven by increasing demand, the retirement of the Pickering nuclear plant, the refurbishment of other nuclear generating units, as well as expiring contracts for existing facilities.

To address these needs, IESO has released a Request for Proposals for new electrical capacity as part of the procurement for long-term electricity reliability services (LT1 RFP). Here is a link to IESO’s website for more information on the RFP process: https://www.ieso.ca/en/Sector-Participants/Resource-Acquisition-and-Contracts/Long-Term-RFP-and-Expedited-Process

Energy storage is changing the way electricity grids operate. Under traditional electricity systems, energy must be used as it is made, requiring generators to manage their output in real-time to match demand. Energy storage is changing that dynamic, allowing electricity to be saved until it is needed most. A battery energy storage system would allow energy to be stored when supply is higher than the demand and release it back to the grid when demand is higher than the supply. Here is a link to IESO’s website for more information on energy storage: https://www.ieso.ca/en/Learn/Ontario-Electricity-Grid/Energy-Storage

As part of the RFP process, the Township has been made aware of 2 proposals within the Township of Brock. 2 private companies are proposing a battery energy storage system facility near the Hydro One transfer station in Beaverton.

Both proponents will be hosting community engagement as required under the IESO guidelines, for people to learn about their proposed project, along with more details about the procurement and approval process.

ABO Wind Proposal (26448 Hwy 12) 

Public Open House to be hosted on November 15, 2023 from 6 to 8:30 pm at the Wilfrid Community Hall. Click here for a copy of the Public Meeting notice. 

Wpd Canada Proposal (Thorah Conc Rd 3)

Public Meeting to be hosted on November 21, 2023 from 7 to 8:30 pm at the Foster Hewitt Community Centre. Click here for a copy of the Public Meeting notice.