TORONTO - The Ontario Conservative Caucus stood in the way of providing opportunities for farmers, community groups, schools and companies looking to invest in green energy. They've said no to green economic opportunities for manufacturing and skilled labour, programs to ensure that a portion of project costs associated with community renewable energy projects can be recovered and continuing plans to eliminate coal-fired power by 2014.

While paying lip service to the need for sustainable green energy, Conservative MPPs voted against the Green Energy Act's third and final reading. This bill leads to green energy creation and the Conservatives voted to deny municipalities the opportunity to build, own and operate their own renewable energy projects. Notably missing from the vote were the four PC leadership contenders.

As a result of consultations with stakeholders and the public, the Green Energy Act is making Ontario North America's renewable energy leader while creating a culture of conservation. The Act is assisting homeowners, government, schools and industry to embrace lower energy use while providing opportunities for municipalities and communities to build, own and operate their own renewable energy projects.

"The Green Energy Act will truly set us on the path to a 21st century green economy for Ontario, one that is sustainable, easy on the environment, and focused on the jobs of the future. We'll be working hard to ensure Ontario gets every benefit possible from renewable energy and from the efficiency and savings that come from developing a culture of conservation," said George Smitherman, Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy & Infrastructure.