The Ontario Federation of Agriculture is advocating for affordable, accessible natural gas across rural Ontario.
In 2014, the provincial government announced $200 million in loans and $30 million in grants over two years for natural gas expansion. This year, the OFA is focused on creating awareness of the benefits of expanding natural gas to farms and rural Ontario.
Louis Roesch is a board member of the OFA and says expanding the reach of natural gas will boost business with lower energy costs. According to Roesch, natural gas is available to less than 20 per cent of Ontario farms and rural households. By expanding access to natural gas to just 60 per cent of Ontario farms, rural residents and businesses would free up $800 million per year in new disposable income. Those savings could fuel substantial reinvestment and economic development in rural Ontario.
Roesch says the OFA is determined to see the expansion of natural gas and are partnering with groups who support a call for expanded natural gas infrastructure. Discussions have started with groups that share a common interest like the Ontario Warden’s Caucus.
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OFA board member Louis Roesch says only a minority of farms and rural properties have access to natural gas.
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Roesch says the OFA must be a part of building a stronger rural Ontario.
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Roesch says the OFA is collaborating with like minded groups.
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