Durham MPP Warns McGuinty Government
May Pull Plug on Solar Power Funding 

July 9, 2010

BOWMANVILLE – Durham MPP John O’Toole said today that the McGuinty government will pull the plug on jobs and opportunities in the green energy field if it reduces fees paid to homeowners, farms and small businesses who install small solar energy systems.

Under the microFIT program, many farmers and rural residents applied to the Ontario Power Authority for solar power projects that would pay them 80.2 cents per kilowatt hour for electricity they sold to the provincial power grid. 

Now, solar power stakeholders are being told that only roof-mounted solar PV units will be eligible for the top prices of 80.2 cents/kWh. For ground-mounted units, the Ontario Power Authority is proposing a reduced rate of 58.8 cents/kWh.

Mr. O’Toole said this change in the rules will be devastating for farmers, small business, contractors, electricians and manufacturers. “Many have already made substantial investments and based their business plans on a rate of 80.2 cents/kWh. How can they trust the McGuinty government to keep its commitments now and in the future? Mr. O’Toole asked.

“I am disappointed to learn the provincial government seems to be changing its green energy policy in mid-course,” Mr. O’Toole said. “This shows a total lack of planning by the McGuinty government. Unfortunately, it is the farmers and small businesses who will pay the price.”

The Durham MPP urged stakeholders to take advantage of the 30-day period for public comments now underway. Citizens can comment on the new price category for solar power by e-mailing the Ontario Power Authority at: microFIT@powerauthority.on.ca . Information is also available on the web site, www.microfit.powerauthority.on.ca

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For further information please contact:

John O’Toole, MPP – Durham (905) 697-1501 / 1-800-661-2433