Greg Rickford, MPP for Kenora-Rainy River announced that approximately 30
homes and businesses in Kenora District will be able to connect to natural gas for the first time thanks to the
province’s Natural Gas Expansion Program.
Under Phase 2 of the program, Ontario will allocate $956,804 to support new connections to the natural gas
distribution system and help make life more affordable in Kenora-Rainy River.
“Our government is making good on its promise to deliver affordable energy and expand natural gas pipelines
to more communities,” said MPP Greg Rickford. “Access to natural gas will help more families and businesses
find energy savings, while promoting economic development and job creation across Kenora-Rainy River.”
The Ontario government is expanding access to natural gas across the province to help keep the cost of
energy low for families, businesses and farmers. Phase 2 of the Natural Gas Expansion Program will allocate
more than $234 million to support approximately 8750 connections in 43 rural, northern and Indigenous
communities.
“As part of our government’s plan to make life more affordable, we prioritized broad distribution across Ontario
to help as many homes and businesses keep the cost of energy low, support jobs and attract new investment,”
said Bill Walker, Associate Minister of Energy. “With Phase 2 of the Natural Gas Expansion program, we’re
putting people first and ensuring Ontario remains open for business. This will be a game-changer for these 43
communities.”
The average household could save between $250 to $1,500 per year in energy costs by switching to natural
gas from costlier fuel sources. Businesses are expected to save up to 30 per cent per year on energy costs.
“We’re thrilled that through Ontario’s Natural Gas Expansion Program, Enbridge Gas will bring much needed
and wanted natural gas in the most affordable way to more communities across Ontario, including this one,”
said Cynthia Hansen, Executive Vice President & President, Gas Distribution & Storage, Enbridge Inc. “Natural
gas is the most economic way to heat buildings and water, and we are excited to work with local officials and
the community to move this project forward, so community members can benefit from the cost savings, and
local businesses can be more competitive.”
Construction for projects under Phase 2 will begin as soon as this year, with all 28 expansion projects
expected to be underway by the end of 2025.
