Role of Alternative Generation Sources in Ontario

The system planning considerations surrounding alternative generation sources for Ontario are explored. An incremental evaluation method is used for preliminary cost and reliability assessment of alternatives. The method of "standardized system cost" is used to screen and rank the effectiveness of options with significantly different attributes in meeting demand growth. Alternative generation sources already supply 5% of Ontario electricity demand. However, a number of factors that enhance the commercial viability of alternatives, such as high priced electricity, tax credits, good wind resources, do not exist in Ontario. Therefore, the role of alternatives is expected to remain a supplementary one, primarily serving remote communities or in conjunction with waste disposal or forest management projects. Industrial and commercial cogeneration may be developed further, depending on various factors that affect investment decisions.