IESO Education Series
Learn how the IESO manages the province's power system so that Ontarians receive power when and where they need it through digital guides that break down key topics in an engaging way.
Please note that you will be asked to provide your first and last name and email address to access the digital guide. By providing this information and accessing the digital guide, you consent to the IESO collecting and using this information for internal reporting, analytics, and stakeholder engagement purposes, including future surveys. Information is managed through a third-party platform (Articulate) and will be shared internally with authorized IESO personnel. Email addresses are not validated and will be treated as business addresses. Please note that your use of the digital guides is subject to Articulate’s terms of use and privacy policy.
Behind the Grid — The Role of the IESO in Ontario’s Electricity Sector
Discover how the IESO powers progress across Ontario. This guide introduces the essential work the IESO does to manage the province's electricity system.
Explore how the IESO:
- Powers Ontario with confidence: Learn how the IESO ensures a reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity system, one that communities and businesses can depend on every day.
- Plans and prepares for a rapidly evolving electricity system: Understand how the IESO forecasts demand, plans for future needs, and integrates new resources.
- Supports a diverse and growing sector: Get to know the roles of the many sector participants, from generators and distributors to innovators, and how the IESO partners with them to secure Ontario’s electricity future.
- Helps Ontarians use energy more efficiently: Learn how Save on Energy programs support households, businesses, and communities in reducing electricity use, lowering costs, and contributing to a more efficient, cost-effective electricity system.
From Demand to Development — How the IESO Plans Ontario’s Electricity System
This guide introduces how Ontario plans its electricity system—from forecasting future electricity needs to securing supply, transmission and delivering power.
Inside, you’ll find explanations and practical insights to help you understand:
- How the IESO forecasts electricity demand, including the key factors driving change such as population growth, economic activity, and electrification.
- How Ontario plans for reliable electricity supply and transmission—ensuring power is available when and where it’s needed.
- How the IESO adapts short and long term planning to meet evolving needs and conditions.
- Why planning matters, and how it supports reliability, affordability, sustainability — as well as economic growth.