TORONTO — Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and Microsoft have announced a strategic partnership aimed at developing clean energy solutions and digital skilling programs.
In a key part of the deal, Microsoft will procure Clean Energy Credits (CECs) sourced from OPG’s carbon-free hydro and nuclear assets in Ontario on an hourly basis. This will enable Microsoft to advance progress on its 100/100/0 by 2030 goal in which Microsoft is committed to powering its datacentres globally with carbon-free energy, around the clock, stated a release.
Revenue raised through sale of CECs can be used to support investments in new clean generation in the province.
The two companies will also collaborate on other sustainability initiatives, including:
- Co-developing an hourly energy matching platform that utilizes Microsoft Azure IoT and AI technology to match a customer’s power needs with local carbon-free energy sources.
- OPG has chosen Microsoft’s Azure as its cloud platform to modernize applications, IT infrastructure and services.
- OPG and Microsoft will explore digital co-innovation opportunities to accelerate OPG’s Small Modular Reactor (SMR) program.
- Microsoft and OPG will evaluate procurement of CECs associated with the carbon-free energy produced by the soon-to-be-constructed SMR at the Darlington New Nuclear Project site.
“This innovative partnership will not only spur economic development in Ontario, but also serve as a model for other companies and jurisdictions to encourage use of clean hydro and nuclear power,” said Ken Hartwick, OPG President and CEO, in a statement. “As part of OPG’s Climate Change Plan, we committed to achieving net zero as a company by 2040, and to act as a catalyst for efficient economy-wide decarbonization. Ensuring industry has access to clean energy to offset emissions assists in meeting that goal.”
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