Electrify

Electrification in Ontario

A Cleaner and Healthier Way to Power Your Home & Business

As the impacts of climate change become more evident, homeowners and businesses in Ontario are seeking effective ways to reduce their carbon footprint. One of the most impactful and forward-thinking solutions is electrification.

Electrification involves transitioning from fossil fuel-powered systems to electric-powered alternatives. By leveraging Ontario's clean electricity grid, this shift enhances energy efficiency, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and improves overall safety and comfort.

The Benefits of Electrification:

1. Cleaner Energy Sources
   Ontario's electricity grid is one of the cleanest in North America. Powered predominantly by nuclear, hydroelectric, and wind energy, the province’s electricity supply generates minimal greenhouse gas emissions. By switching to electric systems, you align with sustainable practices and contribute significantly to combating climate change.

2. Healthier Indoor Air Quality
   Combustion-based appliances like gas stoves and furnaces release harmful pollutants, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, which can compromise indoor air quality and negatively impact your health. Electric alternatives eliminate these emissions, promoting a cleaner and healthier living environment.

3. Enhanced Comfort and Safety
   Electric systems provide consistent and efficient performance while reducing risks associated with fuel combustion, such as gas leaks or improper venting. Additionally, many electric technologies offer advanced features that improve user experience, like customizable heating and lighting options.

Electrification in Action: Popular Applications

1. LED Lighting

   • Efficiency: LEDs consume up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent, fluorescent, or halogen bulbs.

   • Longevity: LEDs last significantly longer, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

   • Safety: LEDs produce minimal heat, reducing fire risks.

   • Versatility: Wide ranges of color temperatures and dimming capabilities allow you to create tailored atmospheres for any space.

2. Induction Cooktops

   • How It Works: Induction cooktops use electromagnetic fields to directly heat cookware, bypassing the inefficient process of heating burners or elements.

   • Benefits: Faster cooking times, precise temperature control, and lower energy consumption compared to gas or traditional electric stoves.

3. Heat Pumps

   • Functionality: Heat pumps transfer heat from the air or ground into your home, using electricity rather than burning fuel.

   • Versatility: They provide both heating and cooling capabilities, offering year-round comfort.

   • Efficiency: Modern heat pumps are up to 4 times more efficient than traditional furnace systems.

4. Electric Radiant Floor Heating

   • Mechanism: Electrical heating elements installed beneath floors radiate heat upwards, warming people and objects directly.

   • Advantages: Evenly distributed warmth for consistent comfort. Minimal heat loss compared to forced-air systems. Preserved air quality with no combustion-related emissions.

5. Electric Vehicles (EVs)

   • Environmental Impact: EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to internal combustion engines.

   • Charging Solutions: Installing a Level 2 charger (240V) at home allows for full recharges overnight while balancing grid demand during off-peak hours.

   • Cost Savings: Lower operating and maintenance costs compared to gas-powered vehicles.

6. Electrical Panel Upgrades

   • Proper Wiring and Installation: As your home or building transitions to electric heating, cooking, and transportation, your electrical system must meet the growing demand. Ensuring safe, efficient current flow to prevent overheating and hazards.

   • Code Compliance: Modern panels incorporate advanced safety features like Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) breakers, meeting and exceeding current Electrical Safety Code requirements to reduce fire risks.

   • Smart Monitoring and Control: Upgraded panels provide opportunities to integrate smart devices for real-time energy monitoring and usage optimization, empowering you to make informed decisions about energy efficiency.

Ontario’s Electricity Grid: A Clean and Reliable Foundation

Ontario boasts one of the cleanest and most reliable electricity grids in North America, powered by a well-balanced mix of generation sources that supports Electrification.

• Low-Carbon Supply: With minimal reliance on fossil fuels, Ontario’s grid is ideal for electrification, providing cleaner power for homes, businesses, and transportation.

• Reliability: A diverse generation mix ensures consistent power delivery, even during peak demand.

• Affordable Rates: Competitive pricing through regulated plans allows consumers to optimize energy costs with technologies like EV chargers and heat pumps.

1. Generation by Fuel Type
   Ontario’s electricity is primarily sourced from:

   • Nuclear Energy: ~58% of the province’s supply, providing consistent, carbon-free power.

   • Hydroelectric Power: ~24%, a sustainable and renewable backbone of the grid.

   • Wind Energy: ~8%, showcasing Ontario’s commitment to renewable energy growth.

   • Solar and Biofuel: Contributing to the grid’s diversity, though on a smaller scale.

   • Natural Gas: Used strategically for reliability during peak demand.

   • See Live Grid Watch for real-time generation data and the Ontario Energy Map, which showcases generator outputs and capabilities.

2. Electricity Market Management

   • The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) manages the province’s electricity market, directing real-time power flow and ensuring supply meets demand.

   • Access real-time market data on supply, demand, and pricing here: IESO Power Data ↗, IESO Energy Map

   • Ontario Power Generation (OPG): The largest electricity producer in the province, OPG operates hydro, nuclear, and thermal power stations, delivering clean, affordable energy.

3. Pricing and Rates

   • The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) sets electricity rates under the Regulated Price Plan, which includes:

     • Time-of-Use (TOU) Rates: Pricing varies based on peak and off-peak hours.

     • Tiered Rates: A consistent rate with thresholds based on usage levels.

   • Explore current rates and billing structures here: OEB Electricity Rates ↗.