Centralized Capacity Information Map (CCIM)

The Centralized Capacity Information Map (CCIM) is an online tool created by the OEB to give users a high-level view of where there’s available capacity on Ontario’s electricity distribution systems. In simple terms, it helps users see two main things:

• Available load capacity: The ability to serve new or expanded electricity demand.
• Available hosting capacity for DERs: The ability to connect new projects like solar panels, wind turbines, or battery storage.

The CCIM is a planning aid, designed for early-stage screening. Users can use the tool to quickly check which areas might be suitable for their project before contacting a distributor. The map shows capacity in broad ranges and reflects system conditions at the time distributors submitted their data. It’s not a substitute for detailed assessments, as conditions can change and every project has unique requirements.

The CCIM provides two distinct map environments because they serve different purposes:

• The Available Load Capacity map environment shows areas of the electricity distribution system that can accommodate new customer loads—such as housing developments, commercial buildings, or industrial facilities—without requiring major system upgrades. This helps businesses and developers identify locations where connecting new demand is likely to be simpler and faster.
• The Available DER Hosting Capacity map environment focuses on the ability of the grid to integrate DERs like solar panels, battery storage or other generation facilities. It highlights where the system is expected to be able to host additional generation without causing reliability or safety issues. Data is provided for a range of typical project types, such as inverter- or non-inverter based installations, as well as for projects designed only to displace a customer’s load rather than inject power.

Both map environments are intended for preliminary screening only and do not replace any formal connection application or Connection Impact Assessment (CIA) process. They provide early insights to help users plan projects and reduce uncertainty before engaging in detailed engineering studies.

• Project developers and businesses looking to identify areas where new or expanded electricity demand can be connected easily.
• Renewable energy and DER developers assessing where solar, wind, or battery projects can be hosted without major grid upgrades.
• Municipal planners and consultants seeking high-level capacity insights for community growth or electrification strategies.
• Large energy consumers evaluating suitable locations for new facilities.

The CCIM provides early-stage screening to reduce uncertainty before engaging distributors for detailed assessments.

Indemnification: Customers agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless ERTH Power, its affiliates, officers, employees, and contractors from any third-party claims, demands, losses, damages, or liabilities (including legal fees) arising from or related to the customer’s actions related to the Load Capacity Map, regardless of whether ERTH Power is found negligent, grossly negligent, or otherwise at fault.