On Hallowe’en (October 31, 2011), the new Minister of Energy, Chris Bentley, announced that the FIT program and pricing for wind and solar projects was under review. At that time, FIT rules were amended to note that any contracts announced after October 31, 2011 would be subject to any changes established after the review period (Oct 31 – Dec 14, 2011). The review will examine a broad range of issues such as pricing, participation, eligibility, alignment with regulatory processes, consideration of new technologies and fuel sources. Everyone who desires to can contribute their ideas and suggestions about the FIT process via the mail, filling out a survey at www.Ontario.ca/FITreview or emailing their ideas to FITsubmissions@powerauthority.ca by December 14, 2011.

After the submissions have been received, Deputy Minister Fareed Amin  and his staff will put together a recommendation report for the Minister of Energy which is anticipated to be released in early 2012. At that time or shortly after, the next round of FIT contracts might be released and their terms will reflect any new pricing and rules put in place as a result of the FIT Review.

If you have something to say about the FIT process, the pricing, the inclusion of more renewable energy fuel sources or more, be sure to get your comments in by December 14, 2011 at the above email addresses or mail them to the Ministry of Energy, Attn. FIT Review. This review is part of the process which includes an examination of the FIT program, pricing and structure every two years.