Ontario Secures Groundbreaking National Energy Corridor Agreement
March 4, 2026
Provinces and territories united to build electricity infrastructure and transform Canada into energy superpower
On March 4, 2026, the Ontario government announced a historic effort to connect and strengthen Canada’s electricity systems by launching a first-of-its-kind interprovincial-territorial partnership to build transmission infrastructure needed to power the country’s next generation of growth. The landmark agreement, initiated by Ontario, will bring together British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Yukon, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and the Northwest Territories to advance new electricity transmission projects and strategic interties across Canada.
Following Ontario’s Connecting Canada – Building an Energy Superpower Summit in September 2025, provincial and territorial energy ministers agreed that expanding electricity transmission between jurisdictions is essential to meeting rising demand, strengthening energy security and unlocking the full value of Canada’s clean and diverse energy resources. The agreement marks a major nation-building milestone, breaking down longstanding barriers between provincial grids and enabling a more connected, resilient and self-reliant energy system.
Under this Canada-first agreement, provinces and territories will collaborate to:
- Identify and advance new interprovincial and territorial transmission infrastructure, including key intertie projects with elevated speed
- Expand electricity trade within Canada, helping regions meet growing demand and maximize the use of clean, reliable power before exporting abroad
- Advocate for federal support, including investment to accelerate transmission corridors and an electricity strategy that connects Canada east-west and north-south.
- Partner with Indigenous communities in energy development, ensuring meaningful participation and shared economic benefits
“With the backdrop of global uncertainty, Ontario is emerging as a reliable partner at home and abroad focused on protecting jobs and our economy,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “Ontario has secured a landmark agreement to build an energy corridor that will strengthen our grid using Canadian materials, expertise and workers. This first-of-its-kind partnership lays the foundation for thousands of jobs, billions in investment, and a modernized grid that advances Canada’s long-term energy future. Together, we are advancing Made-in-Canada energy solutions to meet unprecedented energy demand and keep Canada’s economy strong.”
Canada’s grids were built for a different era — designed within provincial borders, rather than a modern economy. According to the North American Electricity Reliability Corporation (NERC) several jurisdictions across North America are currently labelled an elevated risk, requiring more power. Rapid population growth, major industrial expansion, critical mineral development and electrification are driving unprecedented demand for power, while limited interprovincial connections prevent regions from sharing reliable, clean electricity efficiently. Without action, these constraints will lead to higher costs, slower project development, and missed economic opportunities at a time when Canada must strengthen its energy security and global competitiveness.
Two-way trade in goods and services between Ontario and other provinces and territories was valued at more than $324 billion in 2024, underscoring the scale of economic activity that depends on stronger internal connections and reliable, affordable energy to move goods, power industry and support jobs across the country. By working together to modernize and connect their systems, provinces and territories are reducing duplication, lowering long-term costs and ensuring Canada has the infrastructure required to compete globally while remaining energy secure at home. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to build a truly Canadian electricity grid – one that supports regional development, attracts investment and ensures every part of the country benefits from Canada’s abundant energy advantage.
Additionally, Quebec supports the idea of enhanced collaboration between the provinces and territories to identify the most promising projects that meet market needs, provided that this collaboration respects the exclusive jurisdiction of the provinces. It also wishes to contribute to the effort to position the provincial and territorial energy sector on the world stage and is open to discussing concrete, economically viable projects that comply with North American market rules with interested parties.
Strong interprovincial partnership in energy supports the government’s plan to protect Ontario and is a key part of Energy for Generations, the government’s long-term approach to ensuring the province has the reliable, affordable power it needs to be energy secure and drive economic growth. The government’s integrated approach and record-setting investments in energy infrastructure are also providing the certainty needed for Indigenous communities, municipalities, businesses and industry partners to invest confidently in Ontario’s future.
Quick Facts
- According to Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), the province’s demand for electricity is forecast to increase potentially as high as 90 per cent by 2050.
- As Ontario brings new nuclear, storage, and other clean energy projects online in the years ahead, the province will be positioned to expand – becoming a long-term, reliable supplier of clean electricity to other jurisdictions across Canada.
- Ontario currently operates 14 interties with two neighbouring provinces, three with Manitoba and eleven with Québec, representing a total export transfer capability of about 2,385 megawatts (MW) and a total import transfer capability of about 2,580 MW.
- In 2025, Ontario, exported 8.8 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity to Quebec.
- Jurisdictions across Canada are looking to bolster their electricity supply.
Quotes
“Ontario is laser-focused on building an energy grid that not only supports our industries and our people here in the province but also supports our national economic interests through Canadian-made energy solutions. With this historic new agreement, we’re showing world-class leadership as a reliable partner to jurisdictions both within Canada and around the world. This is the innovative energy planning that will support good-paying jobs, economic growth, and energy security in Canada for decades to come.”
– Sam Oosterhoff
Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries
“Access to clean and affordable energy is a priority – period. No matter where you live in this country, we rely more and more every day on electricity to accomplish many of the important things we need to do. We recognize the need to strengthen our ability to share that power to create a more resilient electrical system that supports the swell in demand in New Brunswick and across Canada.”
– René Legacy
Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy, New Brunswick
“This agreement recognizes the importance of electricity interties to Canada’s strategic position in a rapidly changing world. The Yukon-B.C. Grid Connect would provide needed reliable winter electricity to the Yukon, reduce diesel dependence in remote communities, create partnership opportunities for First Nations, unlock the Northwest’s significant critical mineral development, and support Arctic Sovereignty.”
– Ted Laking
Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources, Yukon
“In order to realize Canada’s ambition to become an energy superpower, it’s more important than ever that we work together on planning for interjurisdictional transmission. This work will help inform the enhanced reliability and affordability of our transmission infrastructure, in addition to presenting both economic and energy security benefits.”
– Jeremy Harrison
Minister of Crown Investments Corporation, Saskatchewan
“Canada’s energy future depends on provinces and territories working together. We are ready to collaborate on shared challenges, strengthen transmission, and help build a more secure, coordinated system for everyone.”
– Sidney MacEwen
Minister of Transportation, Infrastructure, and Energy, Prince Edward Island
“Alberta is proud to be a part of this partnership. By strengthening connections with our neighbours, we’re not only making sure electricity can remain affordable, reliable and sustainable – we’re ensuring Canada has the power it needs to stay competitive and drive long-term prosperity for Canadians.”
– Nathan Neudorf
Minister of Affordability and Utilities, Alberta
“For the Northwest Territories, this agreement is about building the infrastructure that enables long-term economic growth and energy security across the North. With this type of long-term vision, strengthening transmission connections between jurisdictions will help unlock strategic projects, reduce reliance on diesel, and position the North as a key contributor to Canada’s clean energy future. Enhanced interties create stronger regional partnerships and provide the foundation needed to advance responsible development that benefits northern communities.”
– Caroline Wawzonek
Minister Responsible for Strategic Infrastructure, Energy and Supply Chains and Minister Responsible for the Northwest Territories Power Corporation, Northwest Territories
“British Columbia’s clean hydro power — together with the significant new wind and solar resources advancing through our calls for power — positions our province as a reliable partner in Canada’s clean energy future.”
– Adrian Dix
Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, British Columbia
“Manitoba is proud to join this national partnership to advance clean, reliable and affordable electricity across Canada. Our province has long been a leader in renewable energy and we remain committed to building a future where electricity is sustainable and accessible to all. Working toward a national electricity grid supports Manitoba’s Affordable Energy Plan by strengthening interprovincial collaboration, protecting ratepayers and ensuring Indigenous communities are full partners in the energy transition.”
– Mike Moyes
Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Manitoba
“As Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, the Honourable Premier Doug Ford, I have a deep understanding that strong interprovincial partnerships in energy are essential to protecting Ontario’s interests and creating national prosperity from coast to coast. By working collaboratively with our provincial partners, we are reinforcing Ontario’s leadership in building a resilient and secure energy future that will ensure a bright future for our province amidst global uncertainty.”
– Will Bouma
Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
“Being part of an interconnected grid provides all of Canada with an opportunity to have a stronger, more efficient and resilient electricity system. Navigating the unique needs and strengths of each province and territory requires a strong commitment to partnership, allowing us to find shared solutions and unlock a better energy future for all Canadians.”
– Lesley Gallinger
President and CEO, Independent Electricity System Operator
“As Ontario’s trusted builder and operator of transmission lines, we know the value of building on our existing interconnections with neighbouring provinces, given the crucial role they play to support system reliability. Electricity demand continues to increase across the country and Hydro One is well positioned to help deliver on a vision for an east-west grid that prioritizes partnering with Indigenous Nations, regional capacity and jurisdictional goals to build a strong, secure and self-reliant system. We applaud the Ontario government, and other provinces and territories, that have come together with this vision for the future that puts Canada and Canadians first.”
– David Lebeter
President and CEO, Hydro One
“The Ontario Energy Association applauds all the provinces and territories that came together today to announce an interprovincial-territorial transmission partnership. Enhanced inter-jurisdictional transmission has multiple benefits for Canada’s electricity grid including improved reliability, resilience, economic efficiency, energy security and environmental sustainability. Increased energy cooperation between jurisdictions will enhance Canada’s competitive advantage.”
– Vince Brescia
President and CEO, Ontario Energy Association
“By expanding interprovincial transmission, we can both meet rising demand and strengthen Canada’s energy security. Success means more reliable, affordable power for businesses and a more competitive Canadian economy. The Ontario Chamber and its members stand ready to work with governments to advance these projects.”
– Daniel Tisch
President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce
“This agreement is the kind of nation-building and silo-busting Canada needs right now. Connecting and strengthening our electricity systems across provinces and territories will act as a magnet for investment, power industrial growth and strengthen communities. A more integrated grid makes Canada more competitive, more resilient and better positioned to make sure Canadians are energy secure and can fully benefit from our diverse energy resources.”
– Candace Laing
President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce
“The Canadian Union of Skilled Workers commends Minister Lecce for this forward-thinking commitment to building a truly Canadian electricity grid. This is exactly the kind of bold, interprovincial leadership that Canada’s workers have been calling for. A modernized, connected grid means thousands of good-paying jobs for our members, from seasoned journeypersons to the next generation of apprentices who are ready to build the infrastructure this country needs. We are also pleased to see Indigenous communities recognized in this plan. When energy infrastructure is built so that Indigenous communities share in the economic benefits and have a real stake in Canada’s energy future, it strengthens the foundation our grid depends on. Canada’s energy advantage is real, and with agreements like this one, our skilled trades workers will be the ones to deliver it.”
– John Wabb
National Executive Board Chairperson, CUSW
“The IBEW-CCO is grateful to Premier Ford and Minister Lecce for delivering on this landmark agreement to build out Canada’s interprovincial electricity transmission infrastructure. Expanding Canada’s grid not only positively impacts our economic strength and energy security, but it also creates real work for unionized electrical workers in this sector who come with the training, safety requirements, and the commitment to quality that a project of this magnitude demands. IBEW is always ready to answer the call and deliver with professionalism and efficiency.”
– James Barry
Executive Secretary Treasurer, IBEW – Construction Council of Ontario
“Today’s announcement represents a defining moment for Canada’s economic future. A more connected and resilient electricity system is essential to supporting the next generation of industry, investment, and community growth. Bringing provinces and territories together, to advance new transmission infrastructure will strengthen our national competitiveness and ensure that businesses have the clean, reliable power they need to thrive. Ontario’s leadership in initiating this agreement underscores the critical role that collaboration plays in building a modern energy backbone for the country. The Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) is proud to support this nation building effort, which will open pathways for innovation, unlock new economic opportunities, and help communities across Canada share in the benefits of a stronger, more integrated energy network.”
– Stephanie Crilly
Executive Director, Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO)
“To address Canada’s future energy needs and to secure our national energy independence, we need new low-carbon generation and new pan-Canadian transmission solutions. The Society sees building transmission infrastructure partnerships between provinces and territories as an important step. The Society welcomes this interprovincial-territorial initiative, and the energy professionals that we represent, particularly those at Hydro One and the IESO, stand ready to continue to deliver the world-leading results in transmission planning, procurement, construction and operations that Canadians expect.”
– Rebecca Caron
President, Society of United Professionals
“Today’s announcement is a major step forward in delivering on nation-building commitments which will power the future of our country. Breaking down barriers to transmission infrastructure not only helps our provinces and territories meet our growing energy demands but creates thousands of career opportunities for Ontarians and Canadians in the skilled trades over the coming decades. As a nation, we are stronger together, and the Carpenters’ Regional Council applauds Minister Lecce and energy ministers across Canada for their commitment to this partnership.”
– Tom Cardinal
President, Carpenters’ Regional Council
“This national energy corridor agreement is a bold step toward strengthening Canada’s energy future and creating real opportunity for working people. Connecting provincial and territorial grids will put thousands of skilled union tradespeople to work building the transmission infrastructure our growing economy depends on. LiUNA members are proud to construct the backbone of a more secure, more connected energy system that keeps investment and jobs here at home and ensures working families across Canada benefit from that growth.”
– Joseph S. Mancinelli
International Vice President, Canadian Director, and Central and Eastern Canada Regional Manager, LiUNA