ERTH Corporation Announces Intent to Acquire Westario Power, Expanding ERTH Power’s Service Territory
January 21, 2026
Last month, ERTH Corporation announced its intent to acquire shares of Westario Power, which would expand ERTH Power’s service territory to 30 communities across seven counties.
“We are excited about the opportunity to partner with the communities and stakeholders of Westario Power and to continue expanding ERTH Power’s service territory,” said Chris White, President and CEO of ERTH Corporation. “This transaction reflects an industry trend toward consolidation where it makes good business sense, and will strengthen our ability to support electrification, grid modernization, and system resilience. As we grow, we remain committed to investing in our local communities, staying true to our roots as your hometown utility, and delivering safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to our customers.”
“We are confident this sale will benefit our customers, employees and the communities we serve by making sure the utility can meet the demands of electrification, growth and climate change,” said Luke Charbonneau, Chair of Westario Power and Mayor of Saugeen Shores. “We had the opportunity to take our time and carefully consider many options, and with the support of a steering committee and expert working groups, to hear from many interested buyers before determining that a sale to ERTH would be the right choice for our staff, customers and shareholders.”
Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator estimates that demand for electricity will increase by 75 per cent over the next 25 years. The demand is being driven by the electrification of manufacturing, AI data centres, electric vehicles and other electric devices in a growing population. The decision by Westario Power’s Board to sell the company is part of a broader provincial trend to consolidate small utilities to ensure they can meet rising electricity demands, maintain stable rates and respond quickly to power outages amid unpredictable weather in a changing climate.
The sale agreement would be executed by all parties following Westario shareholders’ approval over the next few weeks. However, the closing of the transaction would still need to be approved by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB). In assessing the transaction, the OEB applies a “no harm” test. The no harm test assesses any transaction to ensure the proposed changes will not result in higher costs or reduced service quality for consumers.
More information is available at erthpower.com/poweringforward.
