Automakers, suppliers wait on electricity relief in Ontario

Ontario’s economic development minister — the third in a year — said the provincial government’s long-promised plan to cut electricity rates for businesses would be unveiled in “the near future,” but he would not disclose details or a timeline. 

“We’re still working on the announcement of a hydro plan for Ontario,” said Vic Fedeli, “but we’re absolutely cognizant of the comments from the auto manufacturers as well as the parts producers. We hear from them and things that they need.” 

Automakers have long been pressing the province to lower electricity rates, which have risen over the past several years and rank among the highest in North America.