The Ontario Ministry of the Environment has posted a draft amend
to the Renewable Energy Approvals Regulation (O. Reg. 359/09) to
provide clarity with respect to the regulatory requirements that
proposed renewable energy projects must satisfy. The proposal
notice and a draft of the regulation can viewed on the Environmental
Registry.
Perhaps the most notable amendments include changes to the
definition of noise receptors and clarification of the noise
receptor setback prohibitions for wind facilities. Uncertainty over
the proper interpretation of the current requirements has been a
concern of the developers of these facilities. Other changes of
note include stronger requirements for mandatory consultations with
the public, Aboriginal communities, municipalities and the Niagara
Escarpment Commission, and changes to the assessment of protected
properties, protected properties, archaeological and heritage
resources, and natural heritage assessment and water assessment
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
