In 2023, Pelham's electricity infrastructure took center stage as changes in Ontario's electric sector unfolded. As Pelham's representative at the Independent Electricity Supply Organization (IESO), I provided crucial feedback on developments affecting our municipality, particularly the Transformer Station in Port Robinson, a vital source for Pelham's four transformer stations.The Integrated Regional Resource Plan (IRRP) unveiled by IESO in December outlined a comprehensive strategy considering electricity demand and supply conditions over the next two decades. Highlighting the significance of electricity as a vital commodity next to water, IESO plays a pivotal role in managing Ontario's power system, ensuring real-time efficiency, and planning for the province's future power needs.
Pelham Hydro One upgrade: a brighter future for Fonthill
Addressing concerns raised during a Density Review with the Energy Minister and Hydro One executives, a significant step was taken to enhance power reliability in Pelham. Last summer's frequent power outages and low voltage in the Fenwick service area prompted a $1.3 million investment by Hydro One at its Pelham Centre Distribution Transformer Station, promising improved reliability and enhanced power quality. Advocacy from local politicians and community feedback expedited this crucial upgrade.
As we move into 2024, the focus remains on requesting additional meetings with Hydro One to ensure ongoing density reclassification updates occur. The data indicates Fonthill aligns with Hydro One's criteria, and further meetings have been promised.
NPEI/Pen West Power: empowering Pelham's community
NPEI and Pen West Power, owned by our community, continue to be the part of the backbone of Pelham's energy mission. Despite the challenges posed by Covid-19, NPEI's annual dividend played a crucial role in funding community priorities. This year, a dividend of $561,000, including a special post-Covid dividend, was granted to Peninsula West Power Inc., a 10 percent increase from the previous year, for distribution to the three municipal owners (Lincoln, West Lincoln and Pelham).
NPEI staff, Town staff and members of the Utility Sustainability working group held their first meeting, focused on analyzing Apps and Tools to optimize energy usage for the Towns NPEI accounts. Anticipating substantial savings in 2024, through these initiatives aim to navigate an ever-evolving energy landscape.
Niagara Road 12 landfill site: a model for environmental responsibility
Pelham takes pride in Niagara Road 12 landfill site, which services the municipalities of Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln and Pelham. An engineered landfill site setting an example for waste management. This site not only avoids the typical landfill smells and bird issues but actively contributes to recycling efforts. From bike parts for Port High School's bike refurbishment classes to a bottle return program benefiting local charities, the landfill is a beacon of environmental responsibility. Notably, the site's innovative approach led to saving the Region budget $300,000 on soil removal.
Utility Sustainability Working Group: Illuminating Pelham's path forward
In 2023, Pelham continued its LED street light conversion program, striving to complete all lights by the year's end, while adding several electric charging stations at the Town Hall and MCC as well as purchasing two new electric vehicles. Council approval was granted for the commencement of the Natural Gas Hedging Program in January 2024, a significant step in the Town's commitment to sustainable energy practices. The Utility Sustainability Working Groups meetings, at various town locations, remain dedicated to analyzing energy usage history and providing valuable assistance to staff.
As we reflect on 2023, Pelham stands at the forefront of sustainable energy initiatives, poised to make 2024 a year of continued growth and adaptability in an ever-evolving energy landscape.
