Residents and businesses in Merrickville-Wolford will soon be able to connect to natural gas for the first time.
MPP of Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes Steve Clark was in the village Wednesday to announce a $2.46 million investment through phase 2 of the province’s Natural Gas Expansion Program.
The expansion will connect gas to 67 homes and businesses.
Mayor Doug Struthers says the investment will save the average household between $250-$1,500 per year in energy costs.
“That’s either as a resident, money you keep in your pocket, or we like to think of investing the money into the local economy and of course, everyone benefits from that, especially local businesses,” Struthers said.
The expansion will also help businesses save up to 30 percent per year on energy costs.
Clark says residents can expect construction to begin, with the expansion project expected to be operating by the end of 2025.
“Enbridge will reach out to the community to let people know about the timeframes, when shovels will be in the ground, and more importantly when they can expect service to their homes and businesses,” Clark said.
Struthers adds this expansion was a long time coming.
He says this expansion will increase the quality of life for residents who are north of the bridge.
“If you’re on the north side of the river, you’re probably on oil,” Struthers said. “And this investment also fits into building a progressive, growing economy, and part of our strategic plan.”
The expansion is one of 28 similar investments being made across Ontario.