Green Energy

Green energy is energy that is produced in such a way as to minimize its negative impact on the environment. Traditional energy sources, most notably fossil fuels, produce greenhouse gases that are believed to be the primary cause of an effect known as global warming or climate change.

Green Energy Projects 

Proponents of Green Energy projects need to be aware that the Township of Stone Mills recognizes the importance of all lands having agricultural capabilities, regardless of the designation assigned to specific lands by the Official Plan of the Township of Stone Mills.

Effective June 20, 2016, all Green Energy project proposals being submitted to the Township of Stone Mills for endorsement, shall include a report prepared by a qualified professional, recognized by the Ontario Institute of Agrologist, that clearly identifies the classification of these lands in accordance with the Canada Land Inventory system.  Furthermore, Green Energy projects which include lands that have been classified as, or meet the criteria of Class 1, 2, or 3 of the Canada Land Inventory system, and which are intended to be included as part of a Green Energy project, shall not receive an endorsement by Council.

Proponents of Green Energy LRP and FIT projects are strongly encouraged to locate these projects upon lands that clearly have no or minimal agricultural capability. These requirements shall not apply to Micro-FIT projects being submitted by the land owner.

The Township recognizes the importance of locating Green Energy projects well away from residential dwellings and other sensitive land uses.

As a result, proponents of these projects are now required to enter into an agreement with the Township.  These agreements serve two purposes.  Firstly, any siting or other concerns relating to a specific proposal would be addressed through the agreement.  Secondly, the agreement provides for the development of a Community Vibrancy Fund whereby proponents of projects would pay their fair share towards the management and services provided by the Township.  The execution of the agreement with the Township is a pre-requisite to the endorsement of a project by Council.  

To obtain more information respecting IESO and their programs, please refer to the following:

• IESO Home Page
• Feed In Tariff Program
• Micro Feed In Tariff Program

To understand the implications of renewable energy projects on your property taxes, please refer to the Property Tax Treatment of Renewable Energy Installations being a publication produced by the Ministry of Finance.