Balancing our energy and food security needs

Sep 03, 2024

By Drew Spoelstra, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

The demand for energy is growing in Ontario, as is the need for reliable supply and infrastructure that will provide sustainable, affordable options and accommodate growth across all sectors of the economy, including the agri-food sector.

Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food sector is not only a cornerstone of our province’s economy, but also a critical part of our identity and our future. We produce more than 200 different farm and food products that sustain our communities, fuel our rural economies, and provide jobs for 11 per cent of Ontario’s work force.

With an annual contribution of over $50 billion to Ontario’s economy, the agri-food sector is undeniably one of the most significant drivers of economic prosperity in our province, which is a key reason the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) has long been advocating for affordable and reliable energy options. This is particularly true for rural Ontario, which is where so much of our food, fuel, fibre and flower production takes place.

That’s why, as a farmer and president of the OFA, I was pleased be part of an event this past week where the provincial government announced a new energy procurement framework for Ontario. It will take a mix of all types of energy generation infrastructure to meet the growing demand for reliable, affordable and sustainable power, and this plan focuses on a diverse supply mix that includes nuclear, hydroelectric, renewables, natural gas and biomass.

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Video: Why Port Infrastructure is Key to Growing Canada's Farms and Economy

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) knows that strong, modern port infrastructure is vital to the success of Canada’s agriculture. When our ports grow, Ontario grain farmers and Canadian farms grow too—and when we grow, Canada grows.

In this video, we highlight the importance of investing in port infrastructure and how these investments are key to growing Ontario agriculture and supporting global trade. The footage showcases the strength of both Ontario’s farming landscapes and vital port operations, including some key visuals from HOPA Ports, which we are grateful to use in this project.

Ontario’s grain farmers rely on efficient, sustainable ports and seaway systems to move grain to markets around the world. Port investments are crucial to increasing market access, driving economic growth, and ensuring food security for all Canadians.

Why Port Infrastructure Matters:

Investing in Ports = Investing in Farms: Modernized ports support the export of Canadian grain, driving growth in agriculture.

Sustainable Growth: Learn how stronger ports reduce environmental impact while boosting economic stability.

Global Trade Opportunities: Improved port and seaway systems help farmers access new global markets for their grain.

Stronger Communities: Investment in ports means more stable jobs and economic growth for rural communities across Ontario and Canada.

We are proud to support the ongoing investment in port infrastructure and to shine a light on its vital role in feeding the world and securing a prosperous future for Canadian agriculture.

Special thanks to HOPA Ports for providing some of the stunning port footage featured in this video.