
Why Every Ontarian Should Choose Solar to Control Ontario’s Costs
As Ontario faces a projected 75% increase in electricity demand over the next few decades—driven largely by the growth of data centers and electric vehicle production—the province must prioritize diverse, sustainable energy solutions to meet this challenge. By choosing solar to control Ontario’s costs, homeowners can effectively shield themselves from the impending rise in utility expenses. While natural gas and nuclear power remain part of the conversation, solar energy offers a cleaner, more cost-effective, and rapidly deployable alternative that deserves greater attention.
Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) recently noted that data centers supporting artificial intelligence (AI) now require far more energy than previously expected. This surge in electricity consumption highlights the need for forward-thinking strategies to balance economic growth and environmental sustainability. At CMI Solar, we believe that solar power, combined with advancements in battery storage, is a pivotal part of this solution.
Why Solar?
Scalability and Speed: Solar energy systems can be deployed at scale far more quickly than nuclear plants or gas facilities. As Ontario seeks to add 5,000 megawatts to the grid by 2026, solar energy stands out as a solution that can be up and running swiftly. Unlike the refurbished Pickering nuclear plant, which is expected to produce 2,000 megawatts, solar projects can be installed incrementally and at a much faster pace, allowing us to meet rising demand while large-scale projects are still in development. By embracing solar now, we can effectively “choose solar to control Ontario’s costs,” reducing the need for more expensive and slower-to-deploy energy sources.
Cost-Effectiveness: As Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner pointed out, renewable energy, including solar, is cheaper and cleaner than fossil fuels. In recent years, solar energy costs have dropped dramatically, making it a highly competitive option compared to nuclear or natural gas. In fact, previous studies have shown that renewables like solar and wind can save taxpayers millions of dollars, unlike the $230 million price tag Ontario faced when canceling renewable energy deals in 2019. By embracing solar, the province can avoid such missteps and focus on long-term savings for both consumers and the government.
Environmental Impact: Ontario has made strides in maintaining a low-emission grid, but the resurgence of natural gas generation is a cause for concern. Solar power offers a zero-emission solution, helping to preserve Ontario’s clean energy status while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This is especially important as the province seeks to increase energy production by 60% by 2050 to accommodate AI data centers, electric vehicles, and population growth. Solar, when paired with emerging battery storage technology, can ensure clean energy is available during peak demand times, reducing the need for natural gas as a backup.
Local and Sustainable: The province has made it clear that solar projects will not encroach on prime agricultural land, preserving Ontario’s rich farming resources. Ground-mounted solar systems will be installed thoughtfully, with municipal input to ensure that local communities are on board. This approach creates opportunities for rooftop and parking lot solar installations, allowing homeowners and businesses to generate energy close to where it’s needed, without disrupting key agricultural areas. The solar carports and rooftop solar systems we’ve already installed across Ontario prove that the province is ready for this kind of smart, sustainable energy expansion.



Why Every Ontarian Should Choose Solar to control Ontario’s costs
For individuals, investing in solar power offers much more than just helping the environment—it’s about taking control of your energy future.
Shield Yourself from Rising Energy Costs: As electricity demand surges across Ontario, energy prices are likely to rise. Installing solar panels allows homeowners to generate their own electricity, significantly reducing or even eliminating monthly power bills. With fixed-rate energy costs becoming harder to guarantee, solar offers predictable savings by freeing you from volatile utility pricing. By taking action now, you can choose solar to control Ontario’s costs, protecting yourself from future rate hikes while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
Ontario hydro bills to rise over next 10 years in government’s energy plan. Long-term energy plan projects that hydro bills will rise to average of $181 a month in 2027.

Own Your Energy Production: By producing your own power, you’re no longer fully reliant on the grid. This is especially valuable as the grid becomes increasingly stressed by growing demand. Solar gives you independence, allowing you to produce clean, renewable energy right from your rooftop, securing your household against future energy shortages or price spikes.
Increase Property Value: Solar panels are not just an investment in energy savings but also in the value of your home. Studies consistently show that homes with solar installations sell faster and at higher prices than those without. Solar is a smart financial investment that can pay off both in immediate savings and long-term home value.
Contribute to a Cleaner, Sustainable Ontario: By choosing solar, you’re directly contributing to reducing Ontario’s reliance on fossil fuels. You become part of the solution to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the province, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
Protect Yourself from Rising Energy Costs in Ontario
Choose Solar to control Ontario’s costs
As Ontario prepares for a 75% increase in electricity demand, the province will need to invest heavily in new energy projects. While this investment is necessary to support growing industries like electric vehicle manufacturing and AI data centers, it will inevitably drive up energy costs for consumers. With the government soliciting bids for 5,000 megawatts of new energy—including more expensive natural gas and nuclear power—Ontarians can expect to see rising utility bills in the coming years.
This is where solar power becomes a critical tool for every homeowner. By choosing solar, you can protect yourself from the rising cost of electricity and take control of your energy future. Instead of being at the mercy of rate hikes tied to the province’s expanding grid and fossil fuel reliance, solar panels allow you to generate your own electricity right at home.
With Ontario facing unprecedented energy challenges, now is the time to make the switch to solar and protect your home and wallet from future electricity price hikes.
Looking Ahead
While nuclear power is often heralded as a reliable, long-term solution, its development is slow and costly. In contrast, solar energy is available today and can meet much of Ontario’s immediate energy needs while allowing time to refine and improve nuclear and other technologies. Moreover, solar energy integrates well with Ontario’s existing renewable resources, such as wind and hydro, to form a resilient, balanced energy mix.
The provincial government’s recognition of growing electricity demand presents an incredible opportunity for Ontario to lead in renewable energy adoption. By making strategic investments in solar energy now, Ontario can not only meet its rising energy demands but also create jobs, foster innovation, and ensure a cleaner, more sustainable future for generations to come.
At CMI Solar, we are committed to helping Ontario achieve this vision by helping homeowners discover a more affordable path in choosing solar to control Ontario’s costs. As demand grows, so does the need for smarter energy solutions. Solar power, with its proven ability to deliver clean, reliable electricity, is ready to take on that role—today and tomorrow. Let’s not wait until 2050 to make the smart choice. The time for solar is now.
sources: “EVs and AI will send Ontario’s electricity demand soaring, system operator says” – The Canadian Press
“Ontario to procure 5,000 MW of energy to meet future demand” – The Canadian Press