WiRE Student Table @ OEN Luncheon ft. Lesley Gallinger
"Ontario’s energy plan is no longer just a vision—it’s delivering results, driving investment, and powering the future."
Today, we concluded the final Ontario Energy Network (OEN) Luncheon of the season, featuring an inspiring address from Lesley Gallinger MBA, CPA, CPA (Illinois), C.Dir., President and CEO of the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO). She provided invaluable insights into how Ontario’s electricity sector is evolving amid shifting global policies and increasing energy demands.
In a time of uncertainty, Lesley emphasized that Ontario is providing confidence through a clear, actionable vision for our energy future—one that is:
1️⃣ Moving faster and at greater scale
2️⃣ Taking a customer-focused approach to grid connections
3️⃣ Enabling broader, cross-sector collaboration
To support Ontario’s economic and population growth, the province is acting—launching larger and more frequent procurements to continue building a system that is sustainable, reliable, and resilient.
Over the past two years, Ontario has secured contracts for more than 4,000 MW of new electricity capacity in collaboration with the Indigenous communities which highlights a collaborative, inclusive approach.
Later this week marks the launch of LT2, Ontario’s largest long-term electricity procurement—a major milestone to meet the province’s growing energy needs for decades.
As a volunteer with Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE), I am passionate creating opportunities for young talent to connect with senior professionals and engage deeply in this dynamic sector. I’m grateful to IESO for sponsoring WiRE’s table and to OEN for hosting these vital conversations that strengthen our community.
I’m genuinely excited to be part of this pivotal moment—working alongside so many committed professionals to build a sustainable, innovative, and inclusive energy system for Ontario’s future.
Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable summer—see you at the next luncheon in September!
