On April 12, 2012, the Ontario Government launched its Clean Energy Economic Development Strategy, which continues the government’s platform of a green energy economy. The new strategy is intended to leverage the province’s clean energy experience to become a global leader in key areas of the energy sector. Priority areas include:
• Maintaining progress in solar and wind energy by supporting companies that are looking to export their Ontario-made products and services to the world;
• Leveraging global leadership in smart meters and the smart grid, including grid automation, data management and consumer engagement in energy usage; and
• Exploring the potential of energy storage. In carrying out this strategy, the Government intends to:
• Establish the Ontario Clean Energy Task Force to help broaden Ontario’s energy focus by facilitating collaboration within Ontario’s clean energy industry to identify export markets, marketing opportunities and approaches to demonstrate Ontario’s advanced clean energy systems;
• Lead cleantech trade missions to support domestic manufacturers by showcasing Ontario’s clean energy solutions in key markets world-wide including Asia, the Middle East and the United States; and
• Deliver on the province’s Smart Grid Fund and other targeted investments to spur innovation in priority areas.
— BLG Energy Markets Bulletin