Wind energy must continue to be a vital component of Ontario's electricity system as the government remains on its path toward a cleaner energy future. In 2012 - for the first time ever - more electricity was generated in Ontario using wind than coal. These were the messages delivered through his opening address as Robert Hornung, Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) president launched CanWEA's 29th Annual Conference and Exhibition in Toronto, Ontario.

"Today, Ontario has a broad range of options for new electricity generation but few that match the requirement for affordability, economic development potential, environmental sustainability, diversification, reliability and rate base value as compellingly as wind energy," stated Robert Hornung. "In addition, new wind energy development will continue to provide Ontario's wind energy supply and value chains with a core domestic market that will allow it to maintain and build upon its current investments in Ontario's green energy economy."

By the end of 2014, Ontario will be the first jurisdiction in North America to eliminate coal as a source of electricity generation. Today, Ontario's more than 1,200 wind turbines generate over 2,200 megawatts of electricity - enough to power over 550,000 homes. Every 1,000 MW of new wind energy drives more than $2 billion in investments, creates 10,500 person-years of employment, and provides enough clean power for over 300,000 average Canadian homes.

"Wind energy is a reliable and cost-effective partner as provinces across Canada pledge to diversify and clean their electricity supplies," added Robert Hornung.

"Ontario's progressive approach to renewable energy development has successfully attracted billions in new investment, provided significant economic benefits to local communities and helped provide new opportunities for the manufacturing sector."

CanWEA is committed to ensuring that wind energy is an important element of the Ontario government's revised Long Term Energy Plan that is being developed this Fall.

About the Canadian Wind Energy Association

CanWEA is the voice of Canada's wind energy industry, actively promoting the responsible and sustainable growth of wind energy on behalf of its members. A national non-profit association, CanWEA serves as Canada's leading source of credible information about wind energy and its social, economic and environmental benefits.