Life more affordable for First Nation families and businesses
NORTHWESTERN, ONTARIO ~~~~~~~~~~ June 9, 2021 (LSN) Today, Greg Rickford, MPP for Kenora-Rainy River, announced that approximately 77 homes and businesses in Red Rock First Nation will be able to connect to natural gas for the first time thanks to the province’s Natural Gas Expansion Program.
Under Phase 2 of the program, Ontario will allocate $3,295,103 to support new connections to the natural gas distribution system and help make life more affordable in Thunder Bay-Superior North.
“Our government is making good on its promise to deliver affordable energy and expand natural gas pipelines to more First Nation communities,” said Greg Rickford – Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and the Minister of Indigenous Affairs Ontario. “Access to natural gas will help more families and businesses find energy savings, while promoting economic development and job creation across Thunder Bay-Superior North.”
The Ontario government is expanding access to natural gas across the province to help keep the cost of energy low for families, businesses and farmers. Phase 2 of the Natural Gas Expansion Program will allocate more than $234 million to support approximately 8750 connections in 43 rural, northern and Indigenous communities.
“As part of our government’s plan to make life more affordable, we prioritized broad distribution across Ontario to help as many homes and businesses keep the cost of energy low, support jobs and attract new investment,” said Bill Walker, Associate Minister of Energy. “With Phase 2 of the Natural Gas Expansion program, we’re putting people first and ensuring Ontario remains open for business. This will be a game-changer for these 43 communities.”
The average household could save between $250 to $1,500 per year in energy costs by switching to natural gas from costlier fuel sources. Businesses are expected to save up to 30 per cent per year on energy costs.
“We’re thrilled that through Ontario’s Natural Gas Expansion Program, Enbridge Gas will bring much needed and wanted natural gas in the most affordable way to more communities across Ontario, including this one,” said Cynthia Hansen, Executive Vice President & President, Gas Distribution & Storage, Enbridge Inc. “Natural gas is the most economic way to heat buildings and water, and we are excited to work with local officials and the community to move this project forward, so community members can benefit from the cost savings, and local businesses can be more competitive.
” Construction for projects under Phase 2 will begin as soon as this year, with all 28 expansion projects expected to be underway by the end of 2025
NorthShore Ontario
Thunder Bay, Shuniah, Red Rock, Nipigon, Marathon, Terrace Bay Ontario
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