Mr. John Zych
Board Secretary
Ontario Energy Board
2300 Yonge Street
26th floor
Toronto, Ontario
M4P 1E4
Dear Mr. Zych
From the recent press coverage regarding Canada’s commitment to Kyoto it is clear that the country faces a big challenge in meeting its goals. The transportation sector alone contributes about 25% of GHG emissions. Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) produce much less GHG and air contaminants than petroleum based equivalents (due to characteristics of natural gas). Currently 10% of the Toronto taxis operate on natural gas.
During 2004, the City of Toronto Taxi Bylaw supporting the purchase of NGV was eliminated by City Council. This would have hurt the environment and the financial situation for taxi drivers. Enbridge and the taxi industry worked closely together to reverse the vote in a stunning 42 to 1 win at City Council. 2003 & 2004 were difficult years for the taxi business, as visitors to Toronto were severely reduced in the wake of 9/11 and the SARS outbreak. The lower operating costs for NGVs in times of rising fuel prices has been very helpful helped in keeping fares reasonable.
The NGV industry has recently experienced some significant challenges, particularly the withdrawal of Ford and General Motors from the alternative fuels market in Canada. The NGV industry quickly responded with the ANGV – an EPA certified vehicle. The taxi industry helped lobby the government to support these vehicles. The Government of Canada recognized the value of these vehicles by providing a new $3000 incentive to support their purchase. The Ontario Government also provides up to $1000 in PST rebates to encourage the use of alternative fueled vehicles.
Enbridge Gas Distribution plays a very significant role in the industry, being the largest purchaser and seller of light duty NGVs in Canada. The Company has shown a strong commitment in the face of significant marketplace challenges and I would encourage the OEB to end the punitive actions such as imputing revenue to the shareholder. Every natural gas taxi, for example contributes a GHG reduction of approximately seven tons per year as well as improving urban air quality. As a consequence it is very important that we encourage companies such as Enbridge, who are providing real GHG reductions, to continue in the NGV business.
Thank you,
Peter Zahakos,
General Manager
Co-op Cabs | 
