A proposed energy project in West Ottawa aims to address Ontario’s increasing electricity demand by storing excess energy during low-demand periods and delivering it when demand peaks. This initiative will help maintain grid reliability, control costs, and keep communities powered.
With electricity demand in Ontario projected to rise by 75 per cent by 2050, the province faces a critical challenge: ensuring a stable, affordable, and sustainable power supply. Battery energy storage systems (BESS) are emerging as a key solution to this growing need.
Evolugen’s South March BESS is one such project designed to meet this demand. The 250 MW facility aligns with Ontario’s broader goal of securing 3,000 MW of battery storage capacity, as outlined by the Independent Electricity System Operator.
A recent event hosted by Community Associations for Environmental Sustainability (CAFES) at Hub350 in Kanata brought together industry experts, local officials, and community members to discuss the future of battery energy storage in Ontario. The event featured the launch of the 2025 Dunsky Report, Optimizing Ottawa’s Power Grid: The Role of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in Communities and a panel discussion with industry leaders, including Janice Ashworth of Dunsky Energy and Climate Advisors, Nokia Ottawa’s Vice President of Business Operations Andy Thompson, Evolugen’s Senior Vice President and Head of Development Geoff Wright, and Hydro Ottawa’s Manager of Commercial Accounts and Program Delivery, Environmental Engineer Trevor Freeman.
Moderated by CAFES Ottawa Executive Director Angela Keller-Herzog, the discussion focused on optimizing energy storage for local communities, emphasizing key benefits such as increased resiliency, economic growth, and lower electricity prices. Panelists highlighted how battery storage surpasses traditional gas generation by offering cost stability and emissions-free energy.
Wright emphasized that the South March BESS will exceed current safety standards, featuring advanced monitoring systems for 24/7 oversight. Evolugen has also prioritized community engagement by hosting training sessions with Ottawa firefighters to share best practices for battery energy storage safety and fire prevention.
Beyond its technical advantages, battery storage is expected to generate significant economic benefits for local municipalities through increased revenues and community grants. Wright reinforced this point, stating, “These projects will provide direct support to local organizations while ensuring long-term energy reliability.”
The firm has pledged $250,000 per year to fund local projects and initiatives in South March through a Community Development Fund, totalling $5 million over 20 years.
For more information about the project, visit GetChargedOttawa.ca.
