Bruce Power Net Zero (BPNZ) Inc., which was launched last November to leverage clean technologies to build off Ontario’s nuclear foundation to support Canada and Ontario’s Net Zero targets, took another step towards making that a reality by joining the Leadership Council of Energy Storage Canada (ESC).
BPNZ will be represented by Terry Young, who has joined BPNZ as a Senior Advisor, Net Zero Development, bringing with him more than 30 years of experience in Ontario’s electricity sector, including an extensive career at the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO). Most recently, Terry held the position of Interim President and CEO, leading the IESO through its ongoing response to the pandemic and setting a path forward for the acquisition of resources to address emerging energy.
“Energy storage is emerging as a key energy resource at the grid and distribution levels, as well as in front of, and behind, the metre,” Young said. “Energy storage also holds incredible potential when paired with baseload, reliable, emissions-free nuclear power. It will be an important component to a Net Zero future and BPNZ is committed to leading that transition by leveraging the value of nuclear power.”
ESC is the only national trade association in Canada dedicated entirely to the advocacy and advancement of the energy storage industry. ESC ensures energy storage is a key focus for policy- and decision-makers across Canada through advocacy and education, working toward a more flexible, sustainable, and affordable electricity grid.
“We are excited to have Terry’s extensive expertise with Bruce Power Net Zero,” said James Scongack, Bruce Power’s said James Scongack Chief Development Officer and Executive Vice President, Operational Services. “Terry will help us align a range of clean energy technologies to help us achieve Net Zero, including nuclear, storage and renewable technologies as we advance opportunities through our partnership with Energy Storage Canada and our ‘Expressions of Interest’ launched in 2021.”
Energy storage technologies, including large-pump hydro and batteries, use power that is generated elsewhere at times when demand is lower to “store” the energy in a form that may be delivered back to our electricity systems when demand is at its highest. The greatest potential for storage is when it is paired with nuclear power, as it presents the most effective, emissions-free and reliable energy solution for Ontario’s energy mix.
Despite these notable achievements this past year, there is still a lot of work to be done to fully unlock the potential of energy storage in Canada, said Justin Rangooni, Executive Director at Energy Storage Canada.
“Storage is a critical part of the supply mix in an integrated electrification solution,” Rangooni said. “It can be used to shift generation from times when it is created to times when it is needed, presenting a ‘flattened demand’ to the grid. This reduces the need for variable generation capabilities currently provided by gas-fired generation. By using nuclear power to help flatten this demand, storage holds great potential for cost savings and to combat climate change.”
“Regardless of the energy storage approach, nuclear power will be critical to unlocking its true potential,” Scongack added. “Working with Energy Storage Canada and its members is critical to advancing advocacy and tangible pilot projects in the coming years.”
BPNZ is currently accepting Expressions of Interest (EOI) for new carbon-reduction projects. Sharing the clean energy benefits of nuclear power with local communities and other economic sectors is the impetus behind Bruce Power Net Zero Inc. The EOI provides a way for the nuclear industry to collaborate with governments, project developers , renewable generation owners, and community members on innovative ways to reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that are driving climate change. To learn more about the process and apply, visit Bruce Power Net Zero Inc.
About Bruce Power Net Zero Inc.
Bruce Power Net Zero is focused on unlocking the potential of other complementary technologies to nuclear including storage, renewables, hydrogen, and electrified transportation to achieve a Net Zero future. Bruce Power Net Zero also operates Huron Wind, a 9MW wind farm located in Tiverton. Huron Wind was the first commercial wind farm in Ontario. Bruce Power Net Zero is owned jointly by TC Energy and OMERS.
About Energy Storage Canada
Energy Storage Canada (ESC) is the national association for the energy storage industry in Canada and represents the full supply chain of energy storage. ESC focuses on advancing opportunities and building the market for energy storage through advocacy, networking and stakeholder education. Our mission is to advance the energy storage industry in Canada through collaboration, education, policy advocacy and research. We take an unbiased view towards technology and are supported by the contributions of our active members.