New power generation initiatives planned for Windsor area

Capital Power Corporation is exploring options for the East Windsor Cogeneration (EWC) site in Windsor, Ont., on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022. (Bob Bellacicco/CTV News Windsor)

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