Boralex Expands Battery Energy Storage Portfolio with Selection of 125 MW Oxford Project in Canada

Boralex has announced the selection of the Oxford Battery Energy Storage project, expanding its battery energy storage portfolio in Ontario, Canada. 

The project, totaling 125 MW of nameplate capacity, was chosen by Ontario’s Independent Electricity Systems Operator (IESO) following its Long-Term Request for Proposals (LT1 RFP). 

Hugues Girardin, Executive Vice President and General Manager, North America, expressed pride in the team's accomplishment, stating, "With the selection of Oxford, Boralex consolidates its position as a leading developer in battery storage technology in Ontario and across Canada. I'm very proud of our team, who worked hand in hand with our long-standing partners to submit this high-quality project."

The Oxford project joins Boralex's existing battery energy storage projects, including the 300 MW Hagersville and the 80 MW Tilbury projects, which were selected by the IESO in the previous solicitation.

Patrick Decostre, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boralex, emphasized the significance of the Oxford project, stating, "This is major news for Boralex, its shareholders, and all its stakeholders. The Oxford project will create long-term value while contributing to the resilience of Ontario's power grid. With this announcement, which confirms Boralex's role as a key player in renewable energy in Canada, we are making further progress toward our strategic objective of diversifying our asset portfolio by 2025 to integrate a significant portion of storage."

The Oxford Battery Energy Storage Project, located in the Township of South-West Oxford, Ontario, is a 125 MW, four-hour duration battery storage project. It aims to address Ontario's emerging energy needs while ensuring a clean, reliable, and stable grid. Commercial operation for the project is targeted for 2027/2028.

In line with Boralex's commitment to partnership and community engagement, the company has entered into a 50-percent partnership with Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation (SNGRDC) on the Oxford Battery Energy Storage Project. 

Matt Jamieson, President and CEO of SNGRDC, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "SNGRDC is excited about this addition to our growing energy portfolio, and we are pleased to be partnering with Boralex once again. It is promising to see industry leaders recognize the value and importance of Indigenous involvement in creative innovative energy solutions."

Boralex has actively engaged with local stakeholders throughout the project development process, including participating in community engagement opportunities such as local council meetings, open houses, and discussions with municipalities and residents.