Editor,
After reading an article in the Globe and Mail I discovered again that ignorance of energy systems is a problem that can be easily addressed. Despite the interest shown by some stakeholders, it is concerning that our elected council and Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) continue to invest in outdated, century-old technologies and pursue energy storage solutions that could be readily replaced with more modern alternatives.
Kinder Essington, in his December letter to the Meaford Independent, questioned “why is storage even needed?” While such a viewpoint may be challenged, especially by those resistant to change, it is important to recognize that there are numerous up-to-date energy solutions available for those willing to explore them. Global advances have resulted in several proven, fully functioning power and storage systems, with Canada gradually adapting to these innovations. Some attribute Canada’s slow adoption to regulatory policies that prioritize capital-intensive supply expansions over energy efficiency. Experts widely agree that it is time to transition from small pilot projects to large-scale programs. As highlighted by experienced professionals, the solution lies in Virtual Power Plants (VPPs).
A virtual power plant is a network of interconnected devices—such as home batteries, electric water heaters, electric vehicles, and solar panels—linked both to each other and to the grid. Together, these distributed energy resources act as a unified power plant, supplying electricity to the grid during periods of high demand. Beyond simply supplying energy, virtual power plants also improve efficiency by optimizing how energy is used throughout the network.
Smart thermostats offer a clear example of how VPPs can benefit the grid. By automatically adjusting temperatures for hot water and home heating or cooling during times of peak consumption, they help balance demand and reduce stress on the electricity system. As Brendan Haley, senior director of policy strategy at Efficiency Canada, notes, “using energy sources that are responsive to demand fluctuations is out there, but it was always done with big industrial partners.” What is new today is the electrification of residential and commercial energy uses, combined with digital technologies that enable real-time communication and rapid demand response.
Both utilities and consumers can benefit financially from distributed energy sources. Countries such as Germany and the United States are making significant investments in VPP technologies. In British Columbia, B.C. Hydro estimates that pairing its energy-efficiency program (Peak Saver) with a new VPP project using residential batteries could save customers up to $80 million annually by 2030. The anticipated energy savings—over 2,000 gigawatt-hours—would be enough to power more than 200,000 homes. According to B.C. Hydro’s director of energy management and innovation, Brandon Young, optimizing energy use through demand-side management is cost-effective because the benefits outweigh the additional costs required for energy generation and distribution. As Brendan Haley further points out, “VPPs provide more benefits than a conventional power plant. Power plants only supply power. VPPs do that but can also store electricity and use energy more efficiently.”
Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has introduced a program called Save on Energy Peak Perks. Through this initiative, participants allow their utility to adjust their home thermostats by up to 2°C during peak electricity demand from 1 June to the end of September. According to the IESO, this results in savings of up to 90 megawatts each time thermostats are activated—roughly equivalent to removing a mid-sized city from the grid. Prioritizing smaller pools of existing power sources, rather than building new infrastructure (natural gas, nuclear or Pumped Storage plants) could be key to overcoming the grid’s biggest challenges. VPPs enable both energy generation and storage, all managed conveniently from the comfort of one’s home.
The IESO has clearly stated that pumped storage projects are not the solution and even offers alternatives. Corporations that prioritize energy innovation over mere profit-seeking deserve support and investment. The Ontario provincial government must recognize and adopt new technologies instead of pursuing costly and outdated energy projects. Councils and CAOs in Meaford, Grey, and Owen Sound should consider the broader interests of Ontarians—not just their own municipalities. In particular, Meaford council and CAO have a responsibility to protect all residents and avoid constructing massive reservoirs above the 700+ person community near TC Energy’s proposed project. As I have frequently stated there are simple modern technologies that make all the challenges facing a project like pumped storage disappear! If our council and CAO aspire to be leaders in future energy solutions, it is imperative to move on from century-old technologies, as clinging to them will reflect poorly on their legacy.
Pat Maloney, Meaford
