Types of Generation Projects

An image of wind turbines at sunset that fades left to right into an image of solar panels

 

 

Net Metering

The Net Metering Program was created by the Ministry of Energy.

Ontario's Net Metering regulation allows a generator to export electricity to the electrical distribution grid. It is available to any generator applicant who generates, from renewable resources and primarily for their own use, up to 500 kW. 

Ontario Regulation 541/05 defines the renewable energy sources as: 

  • Electricity generated from wind;
  • Electricity generated using solar radiation (photo-voltaic);
  • Electricity using a drop in water elevation;
  • Electricity using agricultural bio-mass;

Or any combination thereof.

If a customer exports more energy than they import during a billing period, they will receive credit for the excess energy which can be carried forward for up to 12 months; the credit can be applied against future electricity bills.

To cancel a net metering agreement, the generator must provide written notice to Festival Hydro.

 


Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the process take?

The process is dependent on size for small and medium sized projects it may take anywhere from 3 to 6 months.

How much does the process cost?

Prices can vary depending on project scope please submit an application for pricing.

Am I eligible for Generation?

Please make an application to determine eligibility.

How many credits do I have?

Please refer to your monthly hydro bill as it will indicate you current credit balance.

How much does a generation system cost?

Please contact a renewable generation installation company for costs.

 

Load Displacement

The Load Displacement initiative may be used by electricity consumers in Ontario who generate some of their own energy from a renewable or non-renewable resource. Load displacement enables you to displace up to 100% of your site load, but does not allow power to be exported into the distribution system when from a non-renewable source.

FIT/MicroFIT (Discontinued)

The information below remains for historical reference.

The Province of Ontario has introduced new regulations to support the implementation of the Green Energy Act, including the creation of Canada's first feed-in tariff program which will be administered by the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO). "Feed-in Tariff" refers to the specific price paid to renewable energy suppliers for the green energy they produce.

 

The Feed-in Tariff (FIT) and microFIT programs were launched by the OPA on October 1st, 2009. The OPA merged with the IESO on January 1, 2015. With regard to existing contracts, the IESO will be substituted for the OPA as the counterparty to the contracts. Going forward, all new documents will be branded as the IESO to reflect the new organization. The Final Rules and the Contracts for both FIT and microFIT programs are available on the official Feed-in Tariff Program website. The microFIT program is highly simplified and the contract issuance process is different from the FIT program.

 

The generators will be allowed to sell their entire electricity measured at the output of the generator at an established electricity rate according to the different types of resources utilized. Payments to the generator under the FIT/microFIT will be made by the IESO through a settlement process between the generator and the distributor, according to the requirements of the Retail Settlement Code (RSC).

 

Detailed program overviews for the FIT and microFIT are available on the Feed-in Tariff Program website for potential renewable projects proponents in preparing for the application process.

If you need to transfer FIT or MicroFIT contracts to new owners contact Festival Hydro at DER@festivalhydro.com for specific information.