The Ontario government is now accepting applications for commercial-scale geologic carbon storage projects, a move it says could help reduce emissions while creating thousands of jobs and supporting industrial competitiveness.
The Ministry of Natural Resources announced Monday that the province is opening the application process as part of its broader plan to attract investment and build a more resilient and self-reliant economy. The government says the technology could help energy-intensive industries cut greenhouse gas emissions by five to seven million tonnes annually, create more than 4,000 jobs and reduce industry costs by nearly $1 billion.
Natural Resources Minister Mike Harris said carbon storage is a proven technology in Canada and internationally, and that Ontario is moving forward with a safe and responsible regulatory approach. He said the province has put strong environmental protections and clear rules in place to protect the environment while supporting good-paying jobs and maintaining Ontario’s global competitiveness.
The province has spent several years conducting research and consultations to develop a regulatory framework for geologic carbon storage. The framework is intended to guide the safe and responsible management of projects while reducing uncertainty and red tape for businesses. Project proponents seeking more information are encouraged to contact the ministry at CarbonStorage@ontario.ca.
Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Natural Resources Dawn Gallagher Murphy said the passage of Ontario’s Geologic Carbon Storage Act, 2025 marked a major milestone in supporting a cleaner and stronger economy. She said regulating carbon storage will help ensure safe implementation while attracting investment and positioning Ontario as a leader in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
The government says the legislation is focused on building resilient, safe and innovative communities and is part of a broader effort to support industries as they reduce emissions. Officials say work will continue with industry stakeholders, municipalities, Indigenous communities, landowners and the public to ensure the framework remains effective.
