OTTAWA, May 17, 2016 /CNW/ - The Canadian Gas Association responded to elements of a draft version of the Ontario Climate Change Action Plan as reported by the Globe and Mail.  The draft Plan includes a proposal to move homes, businesses, and other buildings off of natural gas to electricity for heating. 

"More than 3.5 million Ontario homes, businesses and industrial facilities use natural gas.  It meets more than 35 per cent of Ontario's energy needs," said Timothy M. Egan, President and CEO of the Canadian Gas Association. "At a time when other energy costs like electricity are rising, natural gas keeps energy costs affordable for home owners, businesses and industry. We worry whether the Ontario Cabinet really appreciates the value proposition of natural gas for the people of Ontario," said Egan.

CGA's Ontario distribution members, Union Gas and Enbridge Gas Distribution, deliver a low emission fuel to Ontarians right across the province. They are leaders in driving innovation and cost-effective energy solutions to consumers.

"There is an opportunity to do more with natural gas and the natural gas delivery system to drive energy efficiency, deliver more cost-effective gas-electric system integration, promote innovation, and continue to reduce emissions." said Egan. "The industry is working on opportunities such as renewable natural gas, use of natural gas as an alternative fuel in the heavy-duty truck and marine transportation sectors, movement of rural communities off of higher emitting fuels; and assistance for northern and remote industries and communities to improve their energy sustainability.  We think these are the kinds of things the government should focus on in meeting its emission reduction goals in a more affordable manner versus arbitrarily phasing out something so essential to a resilient and reliable energy system for the province."

About CGA
The Canadian Gas Association (CGA) is the voice of Canada's natural gas distribution industry and its members are distribution companies, transmission companies, equipment manufacturers and other service providers.  Natural gas has a central place in Canada's energy mix meeting over 30 per cent of the country's energy needs.  Today over 6.6 million customers representing well over 20 million Canadians rely on natural gas for heat and power in homes, apartments, buildings, businesses, hospitals and schools.

SOURCE Canadian Gas Association