Ontario municipalities secure funding for pumped storage and nuclear projects

The Council of Meaford, Ontario, approved a pre‑development agreement with TC Energy to advance a proposed 1,000‑MW pumped‑storage project. The three‑year deal provides up to CAD 4.5 million, including an annual CAD 1 million community support payment, CAD 25 000 scholarships, and a matching community investment fund of up to CAD 80 000, plus municipal capacity funding of up to CAD 250 000 per year. The vote passed 5‑2 despite opposition from two councillors and local residents who raised environmental and economic concerns.

In Haldimand County, Ontario, officials announced a CAD 500 000 growth‑readiness grant from Ontario Power Generation to explore new electricity generation at the former Nanticoke Generating Station site. The funding will assess options such as small modular nuclear reactors, hydrogen, or natural‑gas plants on a 900‑acre parcel already zoned for up to 3,000 MW. Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce and County Mayor Shelley Ann Bentley emphasised consultation with local First Nations, including Chiefs Sherri‑Lyn Hill and Margaret Sault, as the province seeks to address projected electricity demand growth of up to 90 % by 2050.