Energy Minister Bob Chiarelli said yesterday said that Ontario is still in negotiations with Cliffs Natural Resources about an accommodation in the energy rate for the Ring of Fire.

Apparently, Cliffs is not leaving Ontario and fully intends on developing their Ring of Fire Black Thor chromite mine.

Chiarelli will also announce a new smartphone apps to help customers in Ontario better understand their electricity use but it was unclear if the app will also show what portion they pay goes directly to Cliffs through subsidized power rates for their proposed chromite mine and smelter.

So-called demand response programs such as Peaksaver Plus, which gives the Independent Electricity System Operator the right to reduce electricity use by household appliances and air conditioners during peak demand periods, will be expanded to the business and commercial sector.

Unlike consumers who get no compensation, companies will be paid to sign up for the program.

Chiarelli explained the $15 billion for the government's decision not to build two new nuclear reactor will more than make up for the estimated $1.1 billion cost Ontario lost by cancelling gas plants in Oakville and Mississauga and relocating them to the Kingston and Sarnia areas.