Ontario Energy Association Releases Discussion Paper on Load-Serving Entities in Ontario

TORONTO, Sept. 13, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

The Ontario Energy Association (OEA) is pleased to release “Policy Case: Recommendations for an Ontario Load-Serving Entity Model.” The Discussion Paper was written by Power Advisory LLC and Aird & Berlis LLP.

The Discussion Paper explores the evolution of Ontario’s electricity market and the challenges for power system planning and resource procurement. The goal of the Paper is to engage a wider audience in a discussion of the role that Local Distribution Companies (LDCs) functioning as Load-Serving Entities (LSEs) could play in delivering efficient and cost effective solutions for Ontario’s electricity customers. The main conclusion in this Paper is that enabling LDCs to take on new roles and responsibilities and become LSEs is an option worth considering in ensuring optimal outcomes for Ontario’s electricity customers. Power Advisory LLC and Aird & Berlis LLP present that LDCs are positioned to perform integrated planning that balances multiple objectives, from their customers’ needs and preferences to resource adequacy, leading to more efficient outcomes and cost savings for customers. 

“Ontario’s electricity sector and the energy needs of consumers continue to evolve. The OEA believes that we can improve on energy sector planning and better meet consumer needs by looking beyond traditional roles for utilities,” said OEA Chair Cynthia Hansen, Executive Vice President, Utilities and Power Operations at Enbridge. “Our hope is that this paper will stimulate further discussion among policy makers, regulators and sector participants about how to improve Ontario’s energy system for the benefit of consumers.”

“This Discussion Paper represents one of the very few reviews and recommendations on how an LSE model could work within Ontario’s unique and ‘hybrid’ electricity market, since market opening in May 2002. Now is the right time to engage in discussion, considering today’s electricity customers’ needs and capabilities, the changing nature of electricity distribution, Ontario’s future supply needs, and bolstering buy-side participation within Ontario’s market which will help ensure success of the IESO’s Market Renewal Program,” said Jason Chee-Aloy, Power Advisory LLC’s Managing Director.

A digital copy of the Discussion Paper can be viewed here.

About the OEA
The Ontario Energy Association (OEA) is the credible and trusted voice of the energy sector. We earn our reputation by being an integral and influential part of energy policy development and decision making in Ontario. We represent Ontario’s energy leaders that span the full diversity of the energy industry.