A Renewable Energy Approval (REA) is authorization from the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) formerly the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) for the operation of an energy facility that utilizes a renewable fuel – specifically wind, solar, or biogas. The REA outlines legally binding conditions of operation to ensure that the environment and community are protected from any adverse effect associated with the operation of the facility. An REA is awarded for a proposed facility through demonstration of compliance with applicable regulations by means of relevant studies, consultations with affected communities, and development of design, construction, operational, and decommissioning plans. With the exception of water power and transition projects, renewable energy projects are not subject to the Environmental Assessment Act; however, the protections provided under the Act are incorporated into the REA process.
Cambium personnel have the knowledge and experience to assist you in the submission process of a sound Renewable Energy Approval application by providing the necessary project management and technical expertise throughout the progression of the project. We can guide you through the many steps of the REA process and provide support regarding any or all of the following aspects:
- Navigate the regulatory requirements and coordinate all permits, studies, and approvals required for the specifics of your project;
- Conduct and manage all studies and field work required for approval of the project;
- Provide input where applicable to the design of the project to ensure all technical requirements of the REA are satisfied;
- Manage and facilitate required consultation activities, including with the Public, Municipalities, and Aboriginal communities;
- Through our sister company, Cambium Aboriginal, we are uniquely suited to facilitate consultations, and if applicable, partnerships, with Aboriginal communities. For a full outline of Cambium Aboriginal Inc. services please visit www.Cambiumaboriginal.com
- Prepare and manage all reporting and submission requirements to ensure a complete and accurate submission package is produced, including required submissions to other ministries and approving bodies; and,
- Liaison with the Environmental Approvals Branch of the MECP during the review process.
Following submission of the REA Application, a public notice of the proposal will be posted on the Environmental Registry for the public to review and provide comments. Following successful review, an REA will be issued that identifies the owner of the facility, outlines the equipment details, describes the process, and specifies the terms and conditions the facility must meet/maintain.
Cambium is well verse in the requirements of an REA and we will work with you to help assess if one would be required for your operations. Some facilities not categorized above may be subject to other permitting requirements such as registration with the Environmental Activity and Sector Registry (EASR), municipal building permits under the Building Code Act, or in the case of any waterpower facility, approvals under the Environmental Assessment Act. Also note, facilities subject to the REA requirements may require approvals from other ministries and approving bodies such as from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, Ministry of Transportation, Conservation Authority, and Niagara Escarpment Commission.
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