A 2025 public opinion poll conducted by Innovative Research Group for the Ontario Waterpower Association shows strong and consistent support for waterpower across the province. Eighty-one percent of Ontarians back the use of waterpower for electricity generation, with support levels steady across all regions, ranging from 77% in Central Ontario to 86% in the South. Among respondents familiar with the technology, support rises to 91%, suggesting that increased awareness correlates with stronger approval.
The survey indicates that reliability and local investment are key priorities for Ontarians. Most respondents said they would accept higher electricity bills – up to five percent annually – if it meant using sources that improve system reliability. A majority also preferred projects that keep more investment and jobs within Ontario, even if such projects come with higher construction costs.
Long-term value was another major theme. Eighty-five percent of respondents agreed that government investment decisions should consider total lifecycle costs, not just initial expenses. Similarly, 84% said that additional public benefits provided by waterpower – such as flood control, recreation, and local economic activity – should factor into project assessments.
Infrastructure support was also high. Eighty percent of Ontarians support building new transmission lines in Northern Ontario to connect untapped waterpower potential to the grid, and 67% support reserving some existing transmission capacity specifically for waterpower projects.
Overall, the findings suggest that Ontarians view waterpower as a reliable, locally beneficial, and sustainable cornerstone of the province’s long-term energy strategy – one that merits continued investment and policy support.
