IPPSO statement on the announcement of changes in the OEB, April 15, 2003

For immediate release: April 15, 2003

OEB reforms "good news" for energy industry

The appointment of a new chairman and other changes proposed at the Ontario Energy Board "will hopefully add up to good news for the energy sector and for consumers," says John Brace, President of the Independent Power Producers' Society of Ontario. "We welcome the government's commitment to reinforce Ontario's system of stable and independent regulation in the energy sector."

"A clear and consistent approach to regulation is crucial to encouraging sound investment in generating capacity and to consumer protection," Brace noted. "We welcome the appointment of Howard Wetston, Q.C. as the new Chair of the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) and wish him well in his new undertaking."

"Although many of the proposed reforms still require detailed study to determine their likely impact, if they reinforce the independence of the Board and make it more efficient, it will be all to the good," Brace said. "We are pleased that the government seems to have responded to the general thrust of many of IPPSO's recommendations on reform of the OEB."

IPPSO was one of many organizations who submitted advice last fall in response to the government's invitation to comment on reform of the Ontario Energy Board. IPPSO's submission on the subject is available online at: "http://www.newenergy.org/IPPSO_submission_on_OEB_mandate_Nov_22_2002.doc

Details of the government's announcement are available on the internet at: http://www.energy.gov.on.ca/index.cfm?fuseaction=english.news&body=yes&news_id=21

IPPSO is a non-profit organization representing more than 100 companies involved in the generation of electricity in Ontario, including generators and suppliers of services, equipment and consulting services. IPPSO members produce power from co-generation, hydro-electric, gas, coal, nuclear, wind energy, waste wood and other sources. IPPSO's members currently produce over 90% of the electricity consumed in Ontario.

For more information, contact:
John Brace, President, 416-962-6262
Jake Brooks, Executive Director, 416-322-6549
Rob McLeese, Past President 416-366-4820

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Independent Power Producers' Society of Ontario, PO Box 1084, Stn. F., Toronto, Ontario M4Y 2T7 Canada, tel. 416-322-6549 fax 416-481-5785 e-mail: ippso@ippso.org http://www.newenergy.org

For queries or suggestions, please forward to:

IPPSO, PO Box 1084 Station F, Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 2T7 Canada.
Street address: 163-C Eastbourne Ave., Toronto, Ontario M5P 2G5
(416) 322-6549 fax 416-481-5785 e-mail: ippso@ippso.org

Last update: April 15, 2003 URL: http://www.newenergy.org