Published: June 2025
Organization: Pembina Institute
Format: Guide / PDF
Estimated Reading Time: 20–30 minutes
Why We Recommend It?
This guide helps Ontario municipalities seize a new opportunity: the ability to shape renewable energy development before proposals reach the province. With Municipal Support Confirmations now required under IESO’s procurement rules, municipalities are empowered to set expectations and protect community interests — but only if they prepare in advance. This playbook offers practical strategies to define siting criteria, align planning tools, and ensure that clean energy projects contribute meaningfully to local priorities. It’s a valuable resource for communities looking to plan proactively and maximize the long-term local benefits of this initiative.
For more information on the IESO’s Long-Term 2 procurement process, visit the official LT2 RFP webpage.
aUDIENCE SPECIFIC
For Governments & Utilities
- Municipalities now hold approval power over renewable energy proposals submitted to the IESO — a pivotal shift that allows communities to influence energy development from the outset.
- Early preparation is critical: municipalities are encouraged to proactively update official plans and zoning by-laws to define where and how renewable energy projects can proceed.
- Clear criteria and approval protocols help municipalities assess proposals consistently and ensure developer expectations and staff capacity are managed effectively.
- Real life case studies demonstrate how municipalities can balance project facilitation with local land use, economic, and environmental goals.
Next Steps & Related Reading...
- Curious how the industry can benefit from the codes? Explore our Business Case and Case Studies sections to understand how meeting higher tiered codes can yield benefits beyond just energy cost savings.
- Looking to strengthen community resilience through the built environment? Visit our Health, Resilience & Risk Management section to explore how municipalities can integrate climate risk, public health, and long-term resilience into building policies, land use planning, and infrastructure decisions.