The federal and Ontario governments have signed a new co-operation agreement aimed at accelerating major infrastructure projects across the province.

The agreement is tied to federal legislation designed to fast-track the approval and development of major projects. It will bring a one-project, one-review approach to proposed-large scale developments in Ontario, said the two governments. Some of the projects falling under the federal-Ontario agreement are expected to include those in two tranches that the Carney government asked the new federal Major Projects Office to consider fast-tracking in accordance with the legislation enacted in 2025.

Two Ontario projects being reviewed by the MPO include the Pickering Generating Station refurbishment project in Pickering, Ont., and Darlington New Nuclear development in Clarington, Ont.

Under the agreement, Canada and Ontario will implement a streamlined and flexible assessment process that minimizes duplication while reinforcing strong environmental protections, allowing governments to rely on Ontario’s process or adopt a coordinated federal-provincial approach on a case-by-case basis.

The agreement also enables the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada to provide Ontario with federal expertise and support in areas including environmental protection, Indigenous engagement and sustainable project development, ensuring environmental responsibilities and the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ rights are upheld.

The federal government said the agreement aligns with its broader focus on strengthening the domestic economy amid global uncertainty, building in partnership with provinces and territories through the MPO and similar agreements already signed with Alberta and New Brunswick. Most, if not all, provinces and territories are expected to sign such deals.

“Canada’s new government is focused on what we can control – building a stronger, more sustainable, more independent Canadian economy,” said Prime Minister Mark Carney. “Our agreement with Ontario will build major projects faster, helping to diversify our trade partners, strengthen our industries, and empower more Canadians with high-paying careers. We are building Canada Strong, and we’re building bigger and faster together.”

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said the “historic agreement:” removes unnecessary red tape and regulatory duplication that has stood in the way of nation-building projects for “way too long.”

Julie Dabrusin, federal minister of the environment, climate change and nature, said she is confident the agreement will ensure that environmental protection and Indigenous rights continue to be upheld while reducing duplication of assessments in the province.

Pictured: The Pickering Generating Station in Pickering, Ont.

Photo: OPG