Ontario Power Generation

Ontario Power Generation is a major Crown corporation owned by the Government of Ontario, responsible for generating approximately half of the electricity in the province. Established in 1999 following the restructuring of the former Ontario Hydro, it operates a diverse portfolio of power stations including nuclear, hydroelectric, and thermal facilities. The company plays a critical role in providing baseload power to the Ontario electricity grid and is a significant contributor to the province's low-carbon electricity system.

History

The corporation's origins trace back to the early 20th century with the creation of the Hydro-Electric Power Commission of Ontario, commonly known as Ontario Hydro. For decades, this public utility held a monopoly on electricity generation and distribution across the province. Following recommendations from the Macdonald Committee, the Electricity Act, 1998 mandated a major restructuring, leading to the breakup of Ontario Hydro in 1999. This created several successor entities, including the Independent Electricity Market Operator and the Electrical Safety Authority, with the generation assets transferred to the newly formed Ontario Power Generation. A key subsequent development was the Ontario electricity policy shift that led to the coal phase-out in Ontario, a transition largely executed by the company.

Operations

The company's operations are focused on the safe, reliable, and cost-effective production of electricity for the Independent Electricity System Operator to dispatch across the power grid. Its power purchase agreements and role in the wholesale electricity market are governed by regulations from the Ontario Energy Board. Core operational activities include the management of large-scale power plant infrastructure, fuel procurement for its thermal stations, and extensive water management for its hydroelectric dam networks. The company also engages in life extension and major component replacement programs, particularly at its nuclear reactor sites, to ensure long-term operational viability.

Power generation facilities

The company owns and operates over 60 generating stations across Ontario, with its fleet dominated by three major nuclear power plants: Darlington, Bruce, and Pickering. Its substantial hydroelectric power portfolio includes facilities on major river systems such as the Niagara River (e.g., Sir Adam Beck Hydroelectric Power Stations), the St. Lawrence River, and in northern Ontario regions like the Mattagami River. While largely phasing out coal-fired power stations, it retains several natural gas power plants, including the Portlands Energy Centre and the Lennox Generating Station, which provide peaking power and grid stability.

Environmental performance

The company is a central player in Ontario's transition to a cleaner energy mix, notably through the complete cessation of coal power use by 2014, a landmark achievement in North America. Its extensive nuclear power in Canada and hydroelectricity in Canada assets result in over 99% of its electricity production being free of smog and greenhouse gas emissions. It is actively involved in developing new low-carbon technology, including small modular reactor projects at the Darlington Nuclear site and exploring opportunities in hydrogen production. The company manages significant environmental assessment and species at risk programs related to its operations and holds certifications under the ISO 14001 standard.

Corporate affairs

As a Crown corporation, the company is wholly owned by the Government of Ontario and reports through the Minister of Energy (Ontario). Its corporate headquarters are located in Toronto's South Core district. The company is a major employer, with a workforce represented by unions such as the Power Workers' Union and the Society of United Professionals. It has established several subsidiaries for specific ventures, including Atura Power for its natural gas portfolio and Canadian Nuclear Partners for nuclear services. Financial performance and dividend payments to its shareholder are reviewed by the Auditor General of Ontario. Category:Crown corporations of Ontario Category:Electric power companies of Canada Category:Companies based in Toronto