Ontario Releases First Integrated Energy Plan for Energy Needs Over Next 25 Years
The Ontario government announced its first integrated energy plan, called "Energy for Generations," on June 12, 2025. The plan was released by the Ministry of Energy and Mines and details actions intended to meet projected energy needs over the next 25 years. The strategy combines electricity, natural gas, hydrogen, and other sources under one coordinated approach.
According to the government, electricity demand in Ontario is expected to rise by 75 per cent in the coming decades, equal to powering four and a half cities the size of Toronto. The plan is structured as a response to this increased demand, outlining efforts to support new housing, economic activity, and the province’s population growth.
The plan identifies several main areas of focus: investment in energy efficiency, expansion of energy generation and storage, modernization of the grid, development of national energy corridors, and maintaining access to fuels such as natural gas. The government set a target of reaching over 99 per cent zero-emissions electricity by 2050 through new projects, including what it describes as the largest nuclear buildout on the continent.
The government states that its approach is guided by four principles: affordability, security, reliability, and clean energy. The announcement notes that these principles have been based on policy directions taken over the past seven years.
As part of the integrated plan, the government says it will work in partnership with municipalities, businesses, industry, and Indigenous communities. Measures include increasing funding for the Indigenous Energy Support Program to $25 million annually and tripling the total amount of loan guarantees for Indigenous partnerships in energy projects to $3 billion. The release also notes the introduction of the province’s first Natural Gas Policy Statement.
Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce called the plan “the ambition and long-term thinking necessary to deliver critical nation-building priorities,” emphasizing the use of Ontario-based energy production. Associate Minister Sam Oosterhoff described the plan as a "generational step toward an energy future that will grow our economy and support Ontario's industries."
Industry representatives also commented on the release. Colin Anderson, President and CEO of the Association of Power Producers of Ontario, expressed support for the integrated approach and long-term planning. Lesley Gallinger, President and CEO of the Independent Electricity System Operator, stated the plan provides a roadmap to maintain a reliable and affordable electricity system. Leaders from the Electricity Distributors Association and the Ontario Home Builders’ Association also signalled support for the plan, highlighting the focus on grid modernization and planning to support housing supply.
Further information about the energy plan and related consultations is available on the Ontario government’s website.