Province makes life more affordable for local families and businesses
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 14, 2022
Today, Goldie Ghamari, MPP for Carleton, was joined by the Minister of Energy, to break ground on a project that will see approximately 11 homes and businesses around Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm connect to natural gas for the first time thanks to the province’s Natural Gas Expansion Program.
Under Phase 2 of the program, Ontario will allocate $376,205 to support new connections to the natural gas distribution system and help make life more affordable in the Ottawa area.
“Our government is making good on its promise to deliver affordable energy and expand natural gas pipelines to more communities, including ours right here in Edwards,” said Goldie Ghamari, MPP for Carleton. “After being ignored for 15 years by the previous government, bringing natural gas to Edwards was a top local priority for me. I’m pleased that our government got the job done in only 3 years. Access to natural gas will help more families and businesses find energy savings, while promoting economic development and job creation across our region.”
The Ontario government is expanding access to natural gas across the province to help keep the cost of energy low for families, businesses and farms. Phase 2 of the Natural Gas Expansion Program will allocate more than $234 million to support approximately 8750 connections in 43 rural, northern and Indigenous communities.
“This is a significant investment in the local community and it’s part of our government’s plan to lower energy costs and make life more affordable for local families,” said the Minister of Energy. “With Phase 2 of the Natural Gas Expansion program, we’re putting people first, bringing prosperity to their communities, and ensuring Ontario remains open for business.”
The average household could save up to 50 per cent per year in energy costs by switching to natural gas from costlier fuel sources. Businesses are expected to save up to 30 per cent per year on energy costs.
“This is a major announcement for our rural sector, as this is such a huge investment. I have been advocating for this project since 2015, working diligently alongside Mr. Stanley, Enbridge, the provincial government, stakeholders, and residents to bring natural gas to this area. It is always so rewarding when hard work prevails, and residents, along with small businesses are there to receive the benefits of such great news,” said Ottawa deputy mayor and councillor George Darouze.
“Enbridge is thrilled to start construction on the Stanley’s Olde Maple Farm community expansion project that will bring affordable and reliable energy to more members of this community,” said Michele Harradence, President, Enbridge Gas Inc. “Natural gas is the most affordable way to heat buildings and water, and through Ontario’s Natural Gas Expansion Program, more homes and businesses will enjoy the comfort, reliability and cost savings that natural gas has to offer.”
Construction for projects under Phase 2 will begin as soon as this year, with all 28 expansion projects expected to be underway by the end of 2025.
For further information please visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/natural-gas-expansion-program
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MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Candice Coates, Executive Assistant
Office of Goldie Ghamari, MPP
candice.coates@pc.ola.org
613-257-9522
