Powering Barrie’s Growth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

[June 6, 2025] This morning, the Ontario government announced a series of fast-tracked electricity transmission projects. The Barrie Chamber is pleased to see that Barrie is included in this initiative.

 

The Orangeville–Barrie transmission line will be upgraded, a move that signals real recognition of our region’s growth and future potential. Energy demand across Ontario continues to climb and is projected to rise 75% over the next 25 years. This investment positions Barrie and Simcoe County to stay competitive, sustainable and ready for what’s next.

 

“Ontario is growing fast and so is our energy demand,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “That’s why we’re planning early and advancing approximately 160 km of new and upgraded transmission lines to connect people and businesses to the affordable, secure, reliable and clean energy they’ll need in the years ahead. After announcing the largest nuclear expansion in Ontario history, we are building for the future by advancing one of the largest transmission expansions in Ontario history. This is part of Ontario's long-term integrated plan for economic self-reliance.”

 

For the business community, this isn’t just about infrastructure. It’s about economic development and confidence in the future of our region.

 

We’ve long heard from local businesses about the need for reliable, affordable energy. Whether you're in advanced manufacturing, construction, agriculture, or clean tech, power is the baseline requirement for growth. This upgrade delivers that.

 

"Simply, you can’t grow what you can’t power. This investment by the Ontario Government gives our region more reliability, more capacity and a stronger case to attract and retain business." said Paul Markle, CEO of the Barrie Chamber.

 

This marks real progress on the environmental front. The upgraded lines will carry energy from non-emitting sources like renewables and the new Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). These compact nuclear power systems offer safe, reliable and low-emission energy. With Ontario’s energy system already over 84% emissions free, this expansion helps businesses meet their green initiative goals while keeping energy reliable and affordable. That’s a real edge in a world that values sustainability.

 

Barrie & Simcoe County: Positioned for Growth

 

Simcoe County is experiencing significant growth. According to the County’s Growth Management Strategy, the population is expected to grow from 361,000 in 2021 to 555,000 by 2051, a 54% increase. Over the same period, employment is projected to grow from 117,000 to 198,000 jobs, marking a 69% increase.

 

(Source: County of Simcoe, OPA No. 7 – Growth Management Strategy)

 

This surge underscores the necessity for robust infrastructure investments, such as the Orangeville–Barrie transmission line upgrade, to support the region’s expanding energy needs and economic development.

 

Southern Simcoe municipalities, including Bradford West Gwillimbury, Innisfil, and New Tecumseth, are anticipated to experience the fastest growth, driven by their proximity to the GTA and integration into key transportation and labour networks.

 

For Barrie and Simcoe County, this translates into:

 

• Enhanced Industrial and Residential Development - The upgraded transmission infrastructure will support new industrial parks and housing developments, ensuring reliable energy supply for both business and residents.
• Facilitation of Electrification and Clean Growth - With increased capacity, the region can accelerate local initiatives around EV infrastructure, smart buildings, agri-tech and clean-tech.
• Improved North–South Energy Flow - Barrie’s location becomes a strategic pivot point between northern generation capacity (like hydro) and southern demand centres.

 

Powering a Cleaner Economy

 

This isn’t just about keeping the lights on. It’s about powering the next chapter of responsible economic growth. These new and upgraded lines will carry electricity from low- and non-emitting sources, including:

 

• Small Modular Reactors: Next-generation compact nuclear systems
• Hydroelectric plants
• Renewable energy
• Storage facilities

 

This is smart infrastructure. It brings together reliability, environmental responsibility and economic opportunity. These three pillars support real, sustained growth in our region.

 

The Barrie Chamber of Commerce will continue to endorse and advocate for forward-thinking initiatives like this, ensuring that our members have a voice in the decisions that shape and support our future.