Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Connections Review

The OEB is currently reviewing issues related to DER connections.

The OEB initiated a review of the requirements for the connection of DERs by licensed electricity distributors in 2019. The DER Connections Review focused on addressing any barriers to the connection of DERs, and where appropriate, how to standardize and improve the connection process. The OEB established the DER Connections Working Group made up of distributors, transmitters, DER providers and consumer groups to provide advice and recommendations. During the last 6 years a series of changes have been made to streamline the process of connecting DERs.

Starting in 2023, we launched Tranche 5 of the initiative with the focus on enabling higher DER penetration through exploring different approaches to address local capacity issues and clarifying cost responsibilities for DER connections. In 2023 and 2024, we reviewed issues related to electric vehicle (EV) charging connections such as information sharing, connection process, technical requirements and cost responsibility. In 2025, we also began development of the Centralized Capacity Information Map (CCIM) to improve transparency around available distribution system capacity. The CCIM will be designed to support informed planning by developers and customers, and reduce barriers to timely integration of DERs and load connections.

The OEB is currently reviewing issues related to DER connections.

The OEB initiated a review of the requirements for the connection of DERs by licensed electricity distributors in 2019. The DER Connections Review focused on addressing any barriers to the connection of DERs, and where appropriate, how to standardize and improve the connection process. The OEB established the DER Connections Working Group made up of distributors, transmitters, DER providers and consumer groups to provide advice and recommendations. During the last 6 years a series of changes have been made to streamline the process of connecting DERs.

Starting in 2023, we launched Tranche 5 of the initiative with the focus on enabling higher DER penetration through exploring different approaches to address local capacity issues and clarifying cost responsibilities for DER connections. In 2023 and 2024, we reviewed issues related to electric vehicle (EV) charging connections such as information sharing, connection process, technical requirements and cost responsibility. In 2025, we also began development of the Centralized Capacity Information Map (CCIM) to improve transparency around available distribution system capacity. The CCIM will be designed to support informed planning by developers and customers, and reduce barriers to timely integration of DERs and load connections.

  • Notice of proposed amendments to the Distribution System Code

    On October 28, the OEB issued a Notice of proposed amendments to the Distribution System Code. These changes help lower barriers to DER connections, reduce costs, and improve timelines, fairness, and consistency in connection processes in support of goals articulated in the Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan, released in June 2025.

    We invite stakeholders to provide feedback to the proposal by November 19, 2025.

    Read the OEB’s Notice of proposed amendments for more information.

  • Distributed Energy Resource Hosting Capacity Data for the Centralized Capacity Information Map

    The OEB has issued a letter setting out the requirements for licensed distributors to provide standardized available distributed energy resource (DER) hosting capacity data for inclusion in the Centralized Capacity Information Map (CCIM). The CCIM with both DER hosting and load customer capacity information will launch in December 2025. It is expected to help customers, developers and planners identify where new generation facilities can connect and support more informed discussions with distributors about connection feasibility.

  • Distribution System Data to Enable a Centralized Capacity Information Map

    The OEB has issued a letter setting out the requirements for licensed distributors to provide standardized available system capacity information to connect new loads. Aligned with the Minister’s Integrated Energy Plan Directive, this new, province-wide screening tool responds to customers' interest in a centralized map that will help to identify where new facilities can connect and support more informed discussions with distributors about connection feasibility. The OEB's work with stakeholders will now shift to focus on defining minimum data reporting requirements that will support the ability to demonstrate where distribution systems have capacity to host new distributed energy resources.

  • OEB Reminds Distributors' Compliance of EV Charging Connection Requirements

    The OEB is reminding electricity distributors of their obligations under the Distribution System Code (DSC) regarding the connection of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). Distributors are expected to finalize their Conditions of Service (CoS) updates by March 31, 2025.

  • OEB revises the Distributed Energy Resources Connection Procedures (DERCP)

    The OEB is issuing an updated version of the DERCP as part of its ongoing DER Connections Review initiative. The revised DERCP aims to increase customer choice and support the energy transition by increasing the overall efficiency of DER connections. The changes to the DERCP address customer concerns, enhance access, standardize connection practices, improve clarity, and simplify processes to reduce connection costs and timelines. The new version of the DERCP will come into force on June 2, 2025.


  • OEB Bulletin - Providing Information on DER Connections

    The OEB has issued a Staff Bulletin reminding licensed electricity distributors of their obligation under the Distribution System Code (DSC) to provide access to specific forms and information to facilitate connection of generation and storage facilities (DERs) to the distribution system. Access to information supports customer choice by ensuring customers understand both technical and non-technical requirements, enabling informed investment decisions.

    The OEB requests that distributors take immediate steps to ensure these forms and information are posted to the websites and readily available for customers, promoting a transparent and consistent approach to DER connections across the province.

    OEB Bulletin - Providing Information on DER Connections

  • OEB letter on Distribution System Capacity Information Map – Phase 1

    The OEB has announced its phased approach to providing customers with access to electricity distribution capacity maps in response to the November 2023 Letter of Direction. In the initial phase, licensed distributors are expected to post capacity information by March 3, 2025.

  • Survey Summary – Sharing System Capacity Information

    On March 12, the OEB launched two surveys focused on Distribution System Capacity Information Sharing. One survey is directed at distributors, while the other targets EV charging service providers and other stakeholders. The summary of the survey results can be accessed through the link below:

  • Notice of Amendments to the Distribution System Code

    The OEB has issued the final Notice of Amendments to the Distribution System Code. The amendments are intended to enable electricity distributors to offer flexible hosting capacity arrangements. These amendments come into force on March 27, 2024.

    • Notice of Amendments to the Distribution System Code
      • Appendix A – Final Amendments to the Distribution System Code
      • Appendix B – Final Amendments to the Distribution System Code – Comparison Version to the proposed amendments in January Notice
      • Appendix C – Final Amendments to the Distribution System Code – Comparison Version to the 2023 version of the Code
    • Distribution System Code (March 27, 2024 version)

  • OEB invites stakeholders to complete survey about sharing distribution system capacity information

    Today, a survey has been posted about distribution system capacity information. The purpose of this survey is to gather insights from distributors, electric vehicle charging service providers and other interested stakeholders regarding the potential benefits and mechanisms for providing publicly available capacity information about the distribution system, in alignment with the Letter of Direction we received from the Minister of Energy. Your input will assist the DER Connections Review Working Group in discussions to develop an approach to distributors providing system capacity information.

    Please click here to participate in the survey.

    We encourage you to complete the survey by April 5, 2024. Please ensure only one survey is completed by your organization. All individual responses will be kept confidential. Aggregated data by industry sector will be provided to the DER Connections Review Working Group and may be included in any future reporting on this initiative.

Page last updated: 28 Oct 2025, 02:48 PM