Don Valley West Candidate Responses
Sheena Sharp
1. Question 1 (solar electricity): Yes
2. Question 2 (offshore wind): Yes
Additional comments
Yes , we need more clean energy, about double by 2050, and solar/wind/storage is the cheapest path. However, I did a high level calculation for the Toronto 2030 District and even if we covered all the buildings in the downtown, top and sides, north and south, which is not practical, we would only generate a third of what the downtown needs. The grid does not care where the solar comes from, so to wisely use society’s resources, we should out it where its cheapest: big flat roofs, small pitched roofs already have 7 year paybacks. Location like the Green Ps are perfect: shading cars while generating enough electricity to avoid expanding the Portlands plant. Absolutely look at the feasibility of wind power, but don’t overlook the fact that buying it from the rest of Ontario is also a good idea.
This is only half the job. We need to eliminate the gas systems in 14 years if we are to offer our kids a reasonable life. This is not optional.
We are constantly told that full electrification in this time period is too expensive, yet when asked how expensive: crickets. Toronto 2030 did a study 5 years ago showing the electrification was the cheapest path to decarbonization, and for most it’s affordable.
So here’s my 3rd pledge: Council needs to give Toronto Hydro direction to map out the path to 100% building and vehicle electrification., for review and discussion.