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Small Hydro Program

Resource Acquisition

The IESO is engaging with the Small Hydro Community on the development and implementation of a Small Hydro Program (SHP) to provide new contracts for existing hydroelectric facilities with installed capacities of 10MW and below. The program aims to deliver value for ratepayers while providing a reasonable revenue stream for facilities to continue operating.

In addition to open engagement sessions, the consultation process has included focused technical sessions with the hydroelectric community directly including, Ontario Waterpower Association (OWA) members and its Board Task Force. Initial discussions took place in 2022 and a report back to Government outlining stakeholder feedback and high-level program design was submitted in July 2022. A letter from government was received to submit draft program rules and contract by December 2022. Upon submitting the draft materials, it was determined that further consultation was required between the IESO and Small Hydro Community to address specific issues with the proposed program design before program implementation. Discussions continued in 2023, resulting in updates to key program design features and an amended report back to government submitted in July 2023. The current phase of engagement involves the finalization of draft program rules and contract, with the opportunity for subsequent feedback. The SHP is intended to launch by the end of 2023 as per the August 31, 2023 Ministerial Directive.

The IESO encourages all interested parties to remain informed and active on this engagement. To be added to the distribution list for communications related to this engagement, or to submit comments and enquiries, please email engagement@ieso.ca

Schedule of Activities

Date

Materials

Expected Action

March 21, 2024

Engagement Complete

Final Engagement Summary

 

December 15, 2023

IESO Small Hydro Program Update

 

November 21, 2023

Engagement Webinar

Present the proposed final program documents and discuss details regarding the launch of the Small Hydro Program.

Recorded Presentation

This webinar was presented during the IESO's November stakeholder engagement sessions, see full agenda for more information.

September 26, 2023

Feedback due on the materials and topics presented at the September 19th Small Hydro Program webinar.

Feedback Received:

September 19, 2023

Engagement Webinar: To discuss and seek feedback on draft program rules and contract

Recorded Presentation

This webinar was presented during the IESO's September stakeholder engagement sessions, see full agenda for more information.

March – August, 2023

IESO/OWA Technical sessions to discuss key design features prior to implementation of draft program rules and contract

 

June 22, 2022

Engagement Webinar - Hydroelectric Program Development & Assessment - Small Hydro

Feedback Received

Webinar Information

May 19, 2022

Outreach session with Small Hydro Community

Webinar Information

April 20, 2022

Engagement Webinar – Hydroelectric Program Development & Assessment – Small Hydro

Feedback Received

Webinar Information

April 1, 2022

Outreach session with Small Hydro Community

Webinar Information