York Energy Centre

The York Energy Centre (YEC) is a 393 MW natural gas-fired electricity generating facility that will provide power during peak demand periods in northern York Region. The YEC was proposed in response to the Ontario Power Authority's (OPA) 2008 Request for Proposals for northern York Region.

Announcements, Notices and Reports

Why the Need for Peaking Generation in Northern York Region

  • A gas-fired peaking generation facility in NYR will provide predictable and reliable power during periods of peak demand when quick response electricity is needed
  • Intermittent sources of power such as wind and solar cannot provide a firm and quick response on demand
  • Currently the region receives its electricity supply via a 230 kV line from the Clairville Transformer Station in Vaughan
  • The new generation facility in NYR would provide a continuous load supply if there was a loss from the Clairville TS
  • In 2005, after months of extensive study, the OPA submitted a report to the Ontario Energy Board outlining a plan to meet NYR’s electricity needs
  • The plan included upgrades to the Armitage Transformer Station (TS) in Newmarket, a new transformer station at Holland Junction, and a new generation facility in NYR

Gas-Fired Generation and Emissions

  • The York Energy Centre will use modern gas-fired generation technology
  • The use of natural gas to produce electricity results in lower emissions compared to oil and coal-fired generation
  • Sulfur dioxide emissions will be negligible due to the low sulfur content of natural gas
  • Extensive emissions modelling will be completed as part of the environmental assessment process
  • The York Energy Centre will meet all Ontario Ministry of Environment (MOE) standards on emission limits and controls
  • The facility will be fitted with Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems to ensure that it is always operated within approved limits set by the Ontario MOE

Community Benefits

  • Assure ongoing reliability and security of electrical supply to NYR and the Township of King
  • Economic spin-offs during construction and operations
  • Property tax revenues to the Township of King