As the GTA cuts its emissions in key areas, this one thing is cancelling out the wins

The numbers are in. While individuals and businesses are reducing emissions, these gains are wiped out by the increased use of gas-powered plants in our electrical grid. In 2023, emissions in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area went in the wrong direction, rising by two per cent. Reductions in home heating and transportation were more than offset by electricity generation—a new report released by The Atmospheric Fund.

With increasing electricity demand and nuclear plants offline for refurbishing, Ontario has chosen to prioritize gas-powered plants over renewable resources. According to data from the Independent Electricity System Operator, grid emissions have more than doubled over the past four years and will double again over the next three years.

This is a choice. The Ontario Clean Air Alliance notes that while the world added almost 50% more renewable energy capacity in 2023, Ontario has not added any solar and wind power to its electricity grid in more than five years. Minister Lecce opened the door for new natural gas plants to bid for the contracts in the government’s recent announcement of renewable energy procurement. Natural gas is not renewable or clean. It takes Ontario in the wrong direction.