New power generation initiatives planned for Windsor area
The Windsor area is getting additional power generation to support regional growth and economic development.
Capital Power Corporation is exploring options for the East Windsor Cogeneration (EWC) site that is expected to add significantly more power generation capacity installed within the current footprint of the long-used site, which is adjacent to the old Ford Motor Engine plant.
The Independent Electrical System Operator of Ontario has identified the Windsor area as high priority for the addition of new power.
“What we’re intending on doing is putting the options in front of the IESO (Independent Electrical System Operator of Ontario), and the IESO will look at them and look at other things that can be done in the area and pick those that provide the greatest amount of capacity in the short term but also those that are lowest cost options,” said Brian Vaasjo, CEO of Capital Power.
“We’re pretty confident that this site and what we’re looking at will come to fruition.”
Vaasjo says the process is moving quickly with the design taking place at the same time as IESO determines the needs and capabilities of the area.
“We’ll be making a submission near the end of this year. The target is for decisions to be made and actually contracts signed early next year in February,” he said.
Capital Power anticipates increase capacity at the plant by May of 2025.
“If not sooner,” said Vaasjo. “This region is taking priority as well as, broadly the Toronto area, as areas that need capacity for growth. You guys are on the forefront of what's going to get done.”
Capital Power is currently assessing the possibility of adding a battery energy storage system (BESS) for up to 40 megawatts (MW) of new power. One megawatt of power can meet the needs of about 1,000 homes.
“Work is also underway to assess additional capacity expansion efforts within the plant in tandem with a battery system,” states a news release from the company. “Both options will be explored with a focus on Windsor’s future needs, as well as important provincial-level policy issues and transmission availability.”
East Windsor Cogeneration Facility facts, according to Capital Power:
- The 92 MW facility began operations in 2009, providing both power to Ontario’s grid and steam to the adjacent Ford factory. Steam production stopped in 2019.
- Equipped with modern emission controls that meet all federal and provincial air quality standards
- The facility is located on 1.5 acres of industrial land in Windsor.
- EWC is a committed community business: annual tax contribution: ~$160,000; employs eight fulltime employees with five contractors on average annually; invests ~$30,000 annually in support of local community organizations and initiatives.
- The 40MW BESS facility is being explored for the southern edge of the site. There would be no incremental emissions from this project.
- New projects will require review by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.
Capital Power officials say they are committed to being net carbon neutral by 2050 through decarbonized and renewable energy with a focus on helping our communities thrive for generations to come.
- With files from CTV Windsor's Bob Bellacicco
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
B.C. tenants evicted for landlord's use after refusing large rent increase to take over neighbouring suite
Ashley Dickey and her mother rented part of the same Coquitlam duplex in three different decades under three different landlords.
Mountain guide dies after falling into a crevasse in Banff National Park
A man who fell into a crevasse while leading a backcountry ski group deep in the Canadian Rockies has died.
Expert warns of food consumption habits amid rising prices
A new survey by Dalhousie University's Agri-Food Analytics Lab asked Canadians about their food consumption habits amid rising prices.
MPP Sarah Jama asked to leave Ontario legislature for wearing keffiyeh
MPP Sarah Jama was asked to leave the Legislative Assembly of Ontario by House Speaker Ted Arnott on Thursday for wearing a keffiyeh, a garment which has been banned at Queen’s Park.
Charlie Woods, son of Tiger, shoots 81 in U.S. Open qualifier
Charlie Woods failed to advance in a U.S. Open local qualifying event Thursday, shooting a 9-over 81 at Legacy Golf & Tennis Club.
Ex-tabloid publisher testifies he scooped up possibly damaging tales to shield his old friend Trump
As Donald Trump was running for president in 2016, his old friend at the National Enquirer was scooping up potentially damaging stories about the candidate and paying out tens of thousands of dollars to keep them from the public eye.
Here's why provinces aren't following Saskatchewan's lead on the carbon tax home heating fight
After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government would still send Canada Carbon Rebate cheques to Saskatchewan residents, despite Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe's decision to stop collecting the carbon tax on natural gas or home heating, questions were raised about whether other provinces would follow suit. CTV News reached out across the country and here's what we found out.
Montreal actress calls Weinstein ruling 'discouraging' but not surprising
A Montreal actress, who has previously detailed incidents she had with disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, says a New York Court of Appeals decision overturning his 2020 rape conviction is 'discouraging' but not surprising.
Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye make it four NFL drafts with quarterbacks going 1-3
Caleb Williams is heading to the Windy City, aiming to become the franchise quarterback Chicago has sought for decades.