Ontario has selected five wind projects totaling 299.5MW in the Canadian province’s first large renewable procurement auction.
EDF EN Canada Developments, EDP Renewables Canada, Invenergy and Renewable Energy Systems Canada won long-term contracts.
The weighted average price was C$85.94/MWh and the weighted price ranged from C$64.50/MWh to $105.50/MWh.
The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) also awarded seven solar contracts totaling 140MW and four hydroelectric contracts totaling 15.5MW in the LRP 1 RFP.
The 16 projects add up to 455MW of renewable energy capacity.
IESO accepted two bids by RES. The proponent partnered with Canadian developer Boralex and the Walpole Island First Nation in the 50MW Otter Creek scheme. RES’ 32MW Gauthier wind farm was also selected.
EDF plans to build the 60MW Romney wind farm in Chatham-Kent. EDP’s 100MW Nation Rise project will be located in the municipality of North Stormont and Invenergy’s 57.5MW Strong Breeze development is sited near the north shore of Lake Erie.
IESO said local support – from municipalities, local First Nation communities or landowners – was a factor in project evaluation.
The provincial agency expects to launch a second LRP, including another 300MW call for wind, late this year.
Image: McLean’s Mountain wind farm in Ontario (GE)
