Ontario Energy Minister Todd Smith was in Perth East Wednesday to announce the Natural Gas Expansion Program will allow 44 homes to connect in Brunner.
Under phase two of the program, Ontario will allocate $814,850 to support new connections to the natural gas distribution system and help make life more affordable in Perth-Wellington.
Perth-Wellington MPP Randy Pettapiece says access to natural gas will help more families and businesses find energy savings, and promote economic development and job creation in the region.
Phase 2 of the Natural Gas Expansion Program will allocate more than $234 million to support approximately 8,750 connections in 43 rural, northern and Indigenous communities.
“Our government is making good on its promise to deliver affordable energy and expand natural gas pipelines to more communities,” said MPP Pettapiece.
“As part of our government’s plan to make life more affordable, we are lowering energy costs for homes, businesses and farms across rural, remote and underserved communities,” said Minister Smith. “With Phase 2 of the Natural Gas Expansion program, we’re putting people first, bringing prosperity to their communities, and ensuring Ontario remains open for business.”
The average household could save between $250 to $1,500 per year in energy costs by switching to natural gas from costlier fuel sources. Businesses are expected to save up to 30 per cent per year on energy costs.
“It is great news for Perth East,” said Perth East Mayor Rhonda Ehgoetz. “We’re very excited and happy that it’s coming. Thank you to the government for making it possible.”
Smith says having natural gas come to Brunner will help further reduce the cost of living for residents and promote economic development in the township’s rural communities through greater access to natural gas as a cheaper energy source.
“We’re thrilled that through Ontario’s Natural Gas Expansion Program, Enbridge Gas will bring much needed and wanted natural gas in the most affordable way to more communities across Ontario, including this one,” said Cynthia Hansen, Executive Vice President & President, Gas Distribution & Storage, Enbridge Inc.
Hansen continued: “Natural gas is the most economic way to heat buildings and water, and we are excited to work with local officials and the community to move this project forward, so residents can benefit from the cost savings, and local businesses can be more competitive.”
Construction for projects under Phase 2 will begin as soon as this year, with all 28 expansion projects expected to be underway by the end of 2025.