Sector Evolution
On April 7, 2022, the Ministry of Energy asked the IESO to investigate and propose program options to integrate low-carbon hydrogen technologies into Ontario’s electricity grid for the purposes of balancing and strengthening the reliability of the electricity system and contributing to broader decarbonization.
After conducting stakeholder engagement and its own research, on October 31, 2022, the IESO reported back to the Ministry with potential options and projects, as well as the proposed program scope, budget and timelines. The IESO’s final report highlighted potential roles for hydrogen to benefit Ontario’s electricity system, including use of hydrogen storage and generation to more efficiently balance supply and demand on the grid, and potentially blending hydrogen into natural gas-fired turbines for peaking capacity.
Based on a jurisdictional scan of comparable programs, discussions with stakeholders and the identified potential projects, the IESO proposed a total program budget of $15 million over three years.
On January 26, 2023, the Ministry of Energy directed the IESO to develop and implement a Hydrogen Innovation Fund (HIF) to integrate hydrogen technologies in Ontario’s electricity grid for the purposes of balancing and strengthening the electricity system and contributing to broader decarbonization. The Minister directed the IESO to issue a targeted Request for Proposals in Q2, 2023.
The goal of HIF is to investigate, evaluate and demonstrate how low-carbon hydrogen technologies can be integrated into Ontario’s electricity grid for the purposes of balancing and strengthening our reliable electricity system.
The IESO encourages stakeholders and particularly industrial associations, hydrogen producers and consumers, Indigenous communities, generators, Municipalities and communities to stay informed on this engagement. To be added to the email list for communications related to this engagement or to submit comments and enquiries, please email engagement@ieso.ca
Ministerial Directive – Hydrogen Innovation Fund (January 26, 2023)
Ministerial Directive – Low-Carbon Hydrogen Strategy (April 7, 2022)
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Date |
Materials |
Expected Actions |
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April 3 - May 5, 2023 |
Proposal Intake Window Opens |
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March 31, 2023 |
IESO to post Final Program Documents |
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March 30, 2023 |
Stakeholder Webinar The IESO will present a summary of stakeholder feedback, the final program documents and announce the program application period. |
This webinar was presented during the IESO's March stakeholder engagement sessions, see full agenda for more information. |
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March 8, 2023 |
Following the February 22 webinar, the IESO is seeking feedback from stakeholders on the items discussed during the webinar.
March 30, 2023: IESO Response to Stakeholder Feedback |
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February 22, 2023 |
Stakeholder Webinar The IESO will provide an overview of the Hydrogen Innovation Fund’s Request for Proposals, including: background information, goal and scope, project evaluation criteria and review process and timelines. Stakeholder feedback will be sought following the meeting to help inform the final proposal guideline and templates. |
This webinar was presented during the IESO's February stakeholder engagement sessions, see full agenda for more information. |
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August - October |
Targeted discussions |
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August 18, 2022 |
Launch of Engagement |
