Council Gives Conditional Support to TC Energy and SON’s Ontario Pumped Storage Project in Meaford

The proposed Ontario Pumped Storage Project is a 1,000-megawatt clean energy storage facility, proposed for construction in Meaford on Department of National Defence lands, located at the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre. Although the project is in the regulatory approval stage, construction is expected to begin in 2029 if full approval is granted. 

The project will provide flexible, clean energy to Ontario’s electricity system, sufficient to power one million homes and reduce carbon emissions by 490,000 tonnes annually. The project will also prioritize local skilled workers, suppliers, and businesses, stimulating both job creation and economic activity in Owen Sound. During construction, the project looks to create 1,000 well-paid, unionized jobs, and Ontario-based companies will provide more than 75 per cent of the total materials and supplies. 

In addition, the project’s collaboration with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation underscores a commitment to inclusive development, long-term partnerships, and shared benefits between all regional partners. 

To read the Staff report presented to the Council, as well as TC Energy's most recent Community update, click here. 

For more information, please contact Paul McGrath, Manager of Community & Business Development, at 519-376-4440 ext. 1254 or email pmcgrath@owensound.ca. 

Quotes:

"The Ontario Pumped Storage Project presents a unique opportunity for both Owen Sound and Grey County. By supporting this project, the City can foster community growth, environmental sustainability, and energy security in Ontario.” 

-Mayor Ian Boddy 

Quick Facts: 

• TC Energy has indicated that the project would stimulate the economy and maximize the value of Ontario’s electricity, generating approximately $12.1 billion in energy system cost benefits. 
• This project marks the single-largest private-sector investment in  
• Grey County history. 
• The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) anticipates that Ontario’s demand for electricity could more than double by 2050.  
• Pumped storage facilities will serve Ontario's electricity system in multiple ways: 
• Store and redeploy zero-emissions power 
• On-demand grid-scale power to replace natural gas-fired generation 
• Proven, safe, and reliable technology 

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