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LTEP Northern Chambers
LTEP Northern Chambers
Include economic development among the principles governing the provinces approach to
energy within the LTEP. Economic development should be the first and over-riding principle.
Increase transparency and offer greater detail on how government will achieve targeted
greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, including what support government will offer to businesses
so they can remain prosperous while finding innovative solutions to reduce their emissions.
Clarify the global adjustment (GA) so that ratepayers can better understand their electricity
bills. Take steps to reduce the GA as a portion of electricity bills so that businesses are able to
see real savings from their conservation efforts.
Expand access to natural gas pipelines and improve the electricity transmission grid to ensure
communities can develop and businesses can afford to invest in Northern Ontario.
A recent report issued by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Top 3 Obstacles to Small Business
Success, indicated that one in 20 Ontario businesses expect to close their doors in the next five years
due to rising electricity prices. In addition, 38 percent will see their bottom line shrink, with the cost of
electricity delaying or canceling investment in the years to come. These concerns are only
exacerbated by the considerable uncertainties around the implementation of Ontarios pending cap
and trade program, which will take effect Jan. 1, 2017. Despite repeated requests by business, many
questions still remain about the full impact of cap and trade, and how proceeds from the program will
be spent.
You can find the complete submission and the full list of recommendations put forward by the
Northern Ontario Chambers of Commerce at www.tbchamber.ca/news/.
- 30 Contact:
Charla Robinson
President
Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce
(807) 624-2626