Note: Materials related to this consultation are located on the OEB’s digital engagement platform, Engage with Us. Visit Regional and Bulk Electricity System Planning Process Review.
Ontario’s electricity demand is rising faster than ever, driven by electrification and economic growth. To keep pace, the OEB has been directed by Minister of Energy and Mines to review and recommend enhancements to Ontario’s regional and bulk planning processes. The aim of these updates is to make processes more efficient, flexible and responsive to the province’s needs.
In alignment with Section 4 of the directive, this review will examine opportunities to:
- Better aligning regional and bulk planning with actual load growth.
- Improve flexibility and responsiveness while reducing timelines within the planning cycle.
- Assess whether to formalize the bulk planning process.
As part of this initiative, the OEB will work closely with the IESO and engage key stakeholders, including electricity distributors, natural gas distributors, and other relevant parties. The OEB will deliver its report, with recommendations for process improvements, to the Minister by March 31, 2026.