Our Advocacy

Discover how the IESO and OEB's new framework recognizes Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) as essential infrastructure. OREC breaks down what the shift to Non-Wires Solutions and the 'value stack' means for community power in Ontario.

Learn about the growth of the national association of renewable energy co‑ops across the country, its forums & projects, and how to get involved in shaping Canada’s community energy future.

Ontario’s energy system isn’t working. Planners cling to “big” projects while communities wait. At OREC, small, local renewable projects prove that residents can invest, earn a return, and help power their own future. It’s time Ontario embraced community energy — cleaner, smarter, and closer to home. Opinion by Graham Findlay, OREC volunteer

OREC has made recommendations to the province for advancing community-owned renewable energy and storage. This post highlights ten key policy and regulatory changes needed in 2025 — from expanding net metering and community solar, to ensuring public and co-op participation in large-scale renewable projects.

A new national report just launched by the Canadian Centre for the Study of Co-operatives (CECC) offers the first-ever snapshot of how...

Hydro Ottawa’s new rate plan includes big spending—but little action on local clean energy. Despite calls to adopt a modern “DSO” model that uses solar, storage, and other community solutions to reduce costs, the utility offers few concrete plans. OREC is calling for transparency and real investment in distributed energy. Read our blog and take action to push for a smarter, more affordable grid.

Nova Scotia just approved a 2.2 MW community solar garden—exactly the kind of project we can’t do in Ontario today. Their Community Solar Program lets everyday residents subscribe to local clean energy, no rooftop needed. It’s simple, scalable, and a model we urgently need here too.

Ontario’s new Local Generation Program could be a game-changer for community power. It would extend the life of existing solar and wind projects and support new, larger-scale renewable energy—owned by communities, for communities. We’ve shared our thoughts with the IESO.

OREC's advocacy is shaping Ottawa’s energy future. Read the IESO’s response to our push for local, sustainable energy solutions.