Regulatory Process

Prior to any construction activities or operations, TC Energy will need to successfully complete rigorous and comprehensive environmental assessment processes to fully understand any potential environmental, health, social and economic impacts, as well as potential impacts on Indigenous or Treaty Rights or interests, and to demonstrate that the proposed project will be in the public interest. 

Due to the nature of the proposed project, both provincial and federal assessment processes and approvals are required.

Federal Impact Assessment process

The Ontario Pumped Storage Project is subject to the federal Impact Assessment process because of its proposed location on federal lands. The Impact Assessment process is how the federal government reviews major projects to understand their potential effects within federal jurisdiction on the environment, people, and the economy. It evaluates potential environmental, social, and economic impacts of the project before any approvals are granted. This ensures transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making.

Public participation is central to the Impact Assessment process. There will be opportunities to provide feedback during official comment periods and through various community engagement sessions. Details will be posted on the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada’s website and the project’s website once the process begins.

Provincial Environmental Assessment Process

Project components located outside of federal lands will be subject to the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. At this time, it is anticipated that the transmission connection is anticipated to be subject to a Class Environmental Assessment for Transmission Facilities (Class EA for TF) – Ministry of Energy and Mines and would be regulated by the Ontario Energy Board. Visit the Ontario Government website to learn more. Additional information will be provided here once the provincial process begins.