Category: News Release

CanREA cautions that Alberta’s TIER reforms add to electricity policy uncertainty and erode investor confidence

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

Proposed changes to Alberta’s carbon pricing framework risk destabilizing the offset market, undermining billions in clean energy investment. 

Edmonton, September 16, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is concerned that the changes to the Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) program announced today by Premier Danielle Smith and Minister Rebecca Schulz will further jeopardize existing investments and undermine Alberta’s ability to attract future clean energy capital.  

The proposed changes are poised to have a significant impact to existing renewable projects in Alberta. For more than 15 years, the TIER framework has been the cornerstone of Alberta’s industrial carbon pricing framework, valued for its stability, transparency and credibility. A key principle of the program has been that credits have only been issued for private sector activities that demonstrably reduce emissions, on a strict, tonne-for-a-tonne basis, ensuring real, measurable environmental impact. This has helped attract billions of dollars of private sector investment, particularly in the last five years.    

Today’s announcement will break that bond of trust in stability and expectations that have fostered Alberta’s attractive investment climate for clean technology. Under the new rules, emitters could receive credits for activities such as technical and financial studies that do not result in actual emissions reductions. In some cases, facilities may be credited twice—once for planning and again for implementation—creating a system of double counting. There is also concern that allowable investments may include routine refurbishments or optimizations that do not represent genuine emissions abatement.  

CanREA participated in government engagement sessions and urged a more robust consultation process, that mirrors the thorough review completed in the past and that allows for in-depth and meaningful analysis of the proposed changes. By proceeding without robust engagement, government risks the reputation of a program built on nearly two decades of collaborative regulatory and policy development across a variety of stakeholders. 

“CanREA members have been active participants in the TIER and the carbon offset market. These proposed changes are a real threat to the credibility of the offset market system,” said Radha Rajagopalan, CanREA’s Director of Policy for Alberta. CanREA is also concerned these changes could compromise Alberta’s ability to meet federal requirements around industrial carbon pricing. 

“Alberta’s TIER system had long been a beacon of stability for attracting investment in clean energy and clean technology. The speed and scale of these changes is both surprising and troublesome. With so many changes already underway in Alberta, in the electricity market and with government policy, these fundamental changes to TIER are adding to an already challenging climate for renewables”, added Rajagopalan. 

CanREA remains committed to working with the Government of Alberta to ensure any future changes to TIER support Alberta’s goals and maintain investor confidence in the province’s energy future.   

Quotes

“CanREA members have been active participants in the TIER program and the carbon offset market. These proposed changes are a real threat to the credibility of the offset market system.”  

“Alberta’s TIER system had long been a beacon of stability for attracting investment in clean energy and clean technology. The speed and scale of these changes is both surprising and troublesome. With so many changes already underway in Alberta, in the electricity market and with government policy, these fundamental changes to TIER are adding to an already challenging climate for renewables.” 

—Radha Rajagopalan, Director of Policy for Alberta, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA 

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

Uniquely Canadian market outlook report for wind, solar and energy storage now available

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association and Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors launch the first, comprehensive, Canada-specific market outlook report for renewable energy and energy storage.  

Ottawa, September 16, 2025—In partnership with Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors (Dunsky), the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) was proud to present highlights from its new report in a full-capacity webinar today, launching “Canada’s Renewable Energy Market Outlook 2025: Wind. Solar. Storage.,” the first, comprehensive, Canada-specific market outlook report for renewable energy and energy storage.  

“We designed this new market outlook report to offer uniquely Canadian market intelligence to support informed decisions by electricity sector stakeholders, renewable energy and energy storage developers, investors and analysts,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. 

Canada’s Renewable Energy Market Outlook focuses on onshore wind, utility-scale solar & battery energy storage in five key markets: British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. It provides the current Canadian state of the market, as well as a cost outlook, a market outlook, and an examination of the economic, employment and GHG-emissions impacts for two potential scenarios from 2025 to 2050.  

“The Outlook identifies a significant opportunity for renewable energy and energy storage deployment across Canada; with wind, solar and storage expected to account for more than 70 percent of all new electricity supply capacity deployed between 2025 and 2050,” said Ahmed Hanafy, Partner and Growth and Innovation Lead at Dunsky.  

Specifically, Canada is projected to deploy 30 to 51 GW of new wind, 17 to 26 GW of new solar, and 12 to 16 GW of new energy storage over the next decade. Between 2035 and 2050, the modeling indicates installed capacity is expected to grow another 50 to 60 percent.   

This rapid growth in wind, solar and storage deployment will create significant financial, employment and emissions benefits for Canada. It represents an important investment opportunity worth $143B to $205B in the next 10 years and significant new job creation opportunities, equivalent to 250,000 to 350,000 direct and indirect full-time equivalent (FTE) job-years from 2025 to 2035.  

The projected deployments also represent significant reductions in the GHG emissions associated with electricity production, thereby reducing the emission intensity of Canada’s grid by more than 90% by 2050.  

“It is going to happen,” said Leonard Kula, CanREA’s Vice-President of Strategic Initiatives, “because solar energy and wind energy are the most affordable and quickly deployable technologies available anywhere in the world today, and grid operators increasingly recognize the value that energy storage can deliver in an evolving grid. Every province and territory is currently deciding how to meet their growing electricity needs, and renewable energy and energy storage are important parts of the solution. The deployment of new wind, solar and energy storage provides a smart and reliable solution for the fundamental challenge that affects electricity markets across Canada.” 

The full report is now available for purchase on the CanREA website, where the executive summary of this report is currently available to download free of charge. The cost of $6,499 includes exclusive access to the full report in English and French, Appendix A (Detailed results and benchmarking) and Appendix B (Modeling methodology and references), as well as sub-licenses for up to 10 individuals at your company or organization.  

There is a deep discount of 1/3 off for CanREA members (log in to the members-only site or email members@renewablesassociation.ca to access your exclusive member discount code). 

Quotes

“We designed this new market outlook report to offer uniquely Canadian market intelligence to support informed decisions by electricity sector stakeholders, renewable energy and energy storage developers, investors and analysts.”

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

 “The Outlook identifies a significant opportunity for renewable energy and energy storage deployment across Canada; with wind, solar and storage expected to account for more than 70 percent of all new electricity supply capacity deployed between 2025 and 2050.”  

—Ahmed Hanafy, Partner and Growth and Innovation Lead, Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors 

“It is going to happen, because solar energy and wind energy are the most affordable and quickly deployable technologies available anywhere in the world today, and grid operators increasingly recognize the value that energy storage can deliver in an evolving grid. Every province and territory is currently deciding how to meet their growing electricity needs, and renewable energy and energy storage are important parts of the solution. The deployment of new wind, solar and energy storage provides a smart and reliable solution for the fundamental challenge that affects electricity markets across Canada.”    

—Leonard Kula, Vice-President of Strategic Initiatives, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA 

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

About Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors 

Founded in 2004, Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors works with leading governments, utilities, corporations and others across North America in their efforts to accelerate and scale the transition to clean, resilient and affordable energy. With deep expertise across the Buildings, Mobility, Industry and Energy sectors, we support our clients in two ways: through rigorous Analysis (of technical, economic and market opportunities) and by designing or assessing Strategies (plans, programs and policies) to achieve success. Dunsky is proudly Canadian, with offices and staff in Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa and Halifax. Visit www.dunsky.com for more information. 

CanREA applauds the federal government for turning its promises into concrete action

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

Today’s nation-building projects announcement shows that the government is ready to move forward at the speed needed to grow our economy

Ottawa, September 11, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes the first tranche of projects being advanced to the new Major Projects Office (MPO), as announced today by Prime Minister Carney.

“Our organization sees today’s announcement as the federal government following through on its promise to move at the speed economic growth requires,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.

This first set of projects to be reviewed by the MPO will set a template for accelerating permitting while maintaining stringent environmental and community impact standards.

“We welcome the federal government’s commitment to accelerating approvals for future electricity projects. We would like to see this leadership embraced across the whole government, ensuring that essential clean energy infrastructure advances with greater speed, less friction and maximum impact,” said Bellissimo.

CanREA is particularly pleased to see Wind West Atlantic Energy on the list of projects that the federal government would like to see progress.

“Projects like Wind West that further integrate Canada’s electricity grids and promote regional planning will encourage growth and decarbonization,” said Fernando Melo, CanREA’s Senior Director of Federal Policy and Public Affairs. “This will allow more Canadian homes and businesses to be powered by renewable energy, lowering costs and increasing the reliability of our electricity systems.”

For CanREA and its members, the government’s commitment to accelerate permitting and learn from the MPO’s process, so that all federal permitting moves faster, is a signal that Canada is a safe harbour for clean energy investment and is an economy poised for growth.

Ensuring this happens will require more than announcing the names of projects receiving an accelerated review and permitting process. An influx of fresh capital is needed, and Indigenous communities must have a seat at the table. This is why CanREA is pleased to see the federal government announce an Indigenous Advisory Council for the MPO, with members bringing deep experience and expertise.

CanREA is ready to support the Council and the whole of the MPO as they contemplate key electricity policies and projects. Prime Minister Carney has shown leadership today, and CanREA now urges him and his government to maintain their momentum by quickly introducing the enabling legislation for the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This ITC will accelerate projects and further break down the barriers to capital faced by Indigenous communities and companies.

“We know that growing Canada’s economy and building major projects requires more renewable electricity and energy storage, which are built better and faster with Indigenous equity ownership,” said Melo. “CanREA hopes to see the federal government bridge these gaps in the forthcoming climate competitiveness strategy and Budget 2025.”

Quotes

“Our organization sees today’s announcement as the federal government following through on its promise to move at the speed economic growth requires. We welcome the federal government’s commitment to accelerating approvals for future electricity projects. We would like to see this leadership embraced across the whole government, ensuring that essential clean energy infrastructure advances with greater speed, less friction and maximum impact.”

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

“Projects like Wind West that further integrate Canada’s electricity grids and promote regional planning will encourage growth and decarbonization. This will allow more Canadian homes and businesses to be powered by renewable energy, lowering costs and increasing the reliability of our electricity systems. We know that growing Canada’s economy and building major projects requires more renewable electricity and energy storage, which are built better and faster with Indigenous equity ownership. CanREA hopes to see the federal government bridge these gaps in the forthcoming climate competitiveness strategy and Budget 2025.”

—Fernando Melo, Senior Director of Federal Policy and Public Affairs, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA 

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

CanREA calls for further changes to new Alberta market design

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

Alberta Electric System Operator’s new Restructured Energy Market design puts renewables at risk

Calgary, August 27, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is concerned that the final Restructured Energy Market (REM) design, released today by the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO), does not provide sufficient protection for investments made under the previous, energy-only market design.

“Alberta has shifted from being a magnet for investment to a market where companies now question the security of the investments they’ve already made,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO of CanREA. “Today’s announcement creates significant challenges for the wind and solar sector in Alberta. But certain solutions could still be implemented to balance the AESO’s objectives with the government’s commitment to protecting operating investments in this province.”

Today’s announcement does not reduce the serious risk of cost increases for operating renewable investments, nor the risk that electricity from operating projects will face increasing congestion constraints. Billions were deployed in this province with the expectation of a stable investment environment. As proposed, the transition to REM does not offer a stable investment environment.

Not only do the changes put gigawatts of low-cost wind and solar projects at risk, but the evolving policies and market rules are also deterring investment in future projects. Investing in renewable energy, the most affordable, quickly deployable form of new electricity generation available today, would make it easier to meet Alberta’s growing demand while keeping rates down for Albertans. Discouraging renewables will make it harder for Alberta to succeed, especially with the increased demand caused by AI data centres.

With some critical changes, Alberta can still course-correct and mitigate these risks by implementing the following changes to its proposed market structure:

1. Introduce longer-term Financial Transmission Rights, to provide protection against increasing system congestion.

  • The proposed eight-year transition period for temporary transmission rights will strand many assets in less than a decade. In the absence of new transmission, these rights should be implemented for the full lifetime of a generation facility build under the previous market rules.
  • We expect the AESO to explore this approach during their fall 2025 engagement.

2. Address current constraints by building South East and South West transmission projects now.

  • Wind and solar projects in southern Alberta have faced significant levels of congestion year over year.
  • The AESO has been developing plans to reinforce transmission access via construction of the South East and South West transmission lines, running from Bowmanton to Whitlaw, for the better part of a decade.
  • Completing these projects will reduce congestion, permit the flow of constrained renewable power and reduce pool prices significantly. The best time to build these projects is today.

3. Insulate renewable projects from new Ancillary Services charges

  • Most wind and solar projects in Alberta moved forward with fixed-revenue contracts and small margins. There is very little margin for the increased costs, such as those that will be allocated for new ancillary services costs, like R30.
  • The announcement speaks to new costs that will be shared by generators and load, “based on the extent to which each causes the need for these services.”
  • The AESO must provide further clarity on the methodology to be used to determine causes and must provide comfort that not all costs will be allocated to wind and solar in Alberta.

“CanREA members are deeply concerned about the proposed market changes. We have been working together to actively advocate for existing operating facilities with both the government and the AESO, and we will continue to do so going forward,” said Radha Rajagopalan, Alberta Director at CanREA.

Renewables are the lowest-cost sources of new generation available today and, at a time when everyone, everywhere needs more electricity, Alberta would do well to ensure that investments made in good faith are honoured and protected.

Quotes

“Alberta has shifted from being a magnet for investment to a market where companies now question the security of the investments they’ve already made. Today’s announcement creates significant challenges for the wind and solar sector in Alberta. But certain solutions could still be implemented to balance the AESO’s objectives with the government’s commitment to protecting operating investments in this province.”

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

“CanREA members are deeply concerned about the proposed market changes. We have been working together to actively advocate for existing operating facilities with both the government and the AESO, and we will continue to do so going forward.” 

—Radha Rajagopalan, Alberta Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

NEWS RELEASE: Electricity Transformation Canada 2025 announces conference program

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

ETC 2025 focuses on clean energy as Canada’s strategic advantage

August 26, 2025 (Toronto) — Canada’s premier clean energy conference and exhibition today unveiled its highly anticipated educational program.

Electricity Transformation Canada (ETC), which will be held October 6-8 at the Enercare Centre in Toronto, will feature nearly 50+ expert speakers and four-focused educational streams featuring dozens of full conference sessions all related to the theme of ‘Clean energy: Canada’s strategic advantage’. 

“CanREA is proud to welcome the industry to Toronto for Electricity Transformation Canada 2025—the country’s premier clean electricity conference. ETC addresses every link in the clean energy value chain, from developers and suppliers to service providers, all united in driving the future of wind, solar, energy storage and grid modernization. This year, we’re zeroing in on clean electricity as a strategic advantage for Canada’s economy, highlighting how our sector is rolling up its sleeves and accelerating project development from coast to coast,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. 

The conference portion of Electricity Transformation Canada (ETC) 2025 will offer a comprehensive look at the political, regulatory and market forces shaping Canada’s clean energy future. Attendees will explore how Canada’s electricity systems are evolving to meet the demands of increased energy consumption and unlock the central role energy storage systems will enable a resilient clean energy grid.  

“The expansion of the clean energy industry throughout Canada has accelerated over the past few years,” said Stephen Miner, President and CEO of RE+ Events. “Our goal with Electricity Transformation Canada is to link businesses to the growing number of opportunities in the Canadian clean energy market. Together with CanREA, we’ve built a premier platform to advance this effort.  

Electricity Transformation Canada (ETC) invites all attendees to learn more about Canada’s renewable energy future. Get ready to gather resources, reports and materials that offer comprehensive insights into the clean energy industry, as well as to enjoy extensive networking opportunities for collaboration and partnerships. 

The exhibition portion of ETC 2025 offers a larger expo hall than last year, where visitors can discover the latest solutions for clean energy projects. The show floor will feature 140+ innovative exhibiting companies showcasing the technologies, tools and solutions shaping tomorrow’s energy landscape. From breakthroughs in solar, wind, and energy storage to cutting-edge microgrid systems, hydrogen, smart grid tech, EV infrastructure and digital tools for energy project development, it all comes together at ETC.

For more information on registration and housing for ETC 2025, please visit electricity-transformation.ca.

Quotes

“CanREA is proud to welcome the industry to Toronto for Electricity Transformation Canada 2025—the country’s premier clean electricity conference. ETC addresses every link in the clean energy value chain, from developers and suppliers to service providers, all united in driving the future of wind, solar, energy storage and grid modernization. This year, we’re zeroing in on clean electricity as a strategic advantage for Canada’s economy, highlighting how our sector is rolling up its sleeves and accelerating project development from coast to coast.” 

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association  

“The expansion of the clean energy industry throughout Canada has accelerated over the past few years. Our goal with Electricity Transformation Canada is to link businesses to the growing number of opportunities in the Canadian clean energy market. Together with CanREA, we’ve built a premier platform to advance this effort.” 

— Stephen Miner, President and CEO, RE+ Events

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

About ETC

Electricity Transformation Canada (ETC) is developed by the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA), which represents the voice of wind energy, solar energy, and energy storage in Canada, in partnership with the Italian German Exhibition Group – one of the world’s largest and most active event organizers—and RE+ Events, a global event management organization with a focus on the clean energy industry. These entities support a shared vision of innovation and collaboration in Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage industries, as the key to future success and prosperity. 

About CanREA

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible, and scalable solutions. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy, and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.”  Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.  

About RE+ Events

RE+ Events is a global event management organization with a focus on the clean energy industry. Our flagship event, RE+ (formerly SPI), is the largest renewable energy event in North America. The RE+ Events portfolio also includes U.S. regional events with a focus on trends and policies in specific states or regions, as well as international events that bring together leaders in developing clean energy markets across the world. RE+ Events is co-owned by the Smart Electric Power Alliance and the Solar Energy Industries Association. 

About Italian German Exhibition Group

The Italian Exhibition Group’s mission is to offer its national Partners concrete business opportunities, high added value content and services. Their credibility and reputation will help bring value to the operations for Electricity Transformation Canada.  

BC Hydro launches call for power

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

CanREA welcomes new opportunity for industry to compete for 5,000 gigawatt-hours per year of clean energy, including wind and solar, in BC.  

Vancouver, July 28, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds Premier David Eby and Minister Adrian Dix for launching BC Hydro’s  2025 call for power today, less than three months after announcing it.  

“British Columbia is one of Canada’s most exciting markets for our growing industry. There is no time to waste in developing more clean, affordable renewable energy to meet growing electricity supply needs, and our members, with their First Nations partners, are ready to deliver,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.  

As noted in our May 5 statement, Premier David Eby announced the Government of British Columbia’s Clean Power Action Plan, which included a new call for power by the provincial utility, BC Hydro, of 5,000 gigawatt-hours per year of clean energy, including wind and solar. 

“This call for power supports BC’s energy security and clean economy, and it will deliver important benefits to First Nations and local communities in all corners of the province,” said Patricia Lightburn, CanREA’s BC Director.  

The new projects will be supported by BC’s new streamlined permitting framework currently under development by the BC Energy Regulator (BCER). CanREA will continue to work closely with the Province and the BCER to develop a new regulatory approach that is fair and transparent for the industry, advances reconciliation and reflects environmental management and community engagement best practices. CanREA’s members are committed to implementing best practices when it comes to community engagement and environmental protection everywhere across Canada.  

“CanREA supports competitive procurement processes that deliver affordable, reliable, clean electricity supply to all ratepayers across Canada. In this case, we worked with BC Hydro to inform the design of this call for power, in collaboration with our industry members and our partners at Clean Energy BC,” said Lightburn. 

Quotes 

“British Columbia is one of Canada’s most exciting markets for our growing industry. There is no time to waste in developing more clean, affordable renewable energy to meet growing electricity supply needs, and our members, with their First Nations partners, are ready to deliver.”  

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

“This call for power supports BC’s energy security and clean economy, and it will deliver important benefits to First Nations and local communities. CanREA supports competitive procurement processes that deliver affordable, reliable, clean electricity supply to all ratepayers across Canada. We were pleased to work with BC Hydro to inform the design of this call for power, in collaboration with our industry members and our partners at Clean Energy BC.” 

—Patricia Lightburn, BC Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

Photos

Photo: Minister of Energy Adrian Dix and CanREA’s BC Director Patricia Lightburn at the launch of BC Hydro’s 2025 Call for Power.

Canadian Renewable Energy Association 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA 

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

Newfoundland and Labrador issue RFEI for 150 MW capacity and 500 GWh energy

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

CanREA members are eager to propose new, affordable, wind and solar energy projects in Newfoundland & Labrador.

Toronto, July 24, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro’s new Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI), as announced July 9.

An information session held by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro on July 23 confirmed that this RFEI is for the supply of energy and/or capacity that, in combination, can provide up to 150 megawatts (MW) of firm capacity and up to 500 gigawatt hours (GWh) of firm energy, to meet the increasing demands of the province’s Island Interconnected System.

“With this announcement, CanREA is now tracking wind energy, solar energy and energy storage activity coast-to-coast in Canada, with a clear focus on building clean energy projects at scale and pace,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.

The RFEI will help the utility gather market information to support the development of a Request for Proposals (RFP) and a Request for Information (RFI) later this year.

“Newfoundland and Labrador needs more power, and our members are ready to compete for the opportunity to develop wind, solar and battery storage projects to help meet these needs, provide affordable, reliable and clean electricity to Newfoundlanders and support economic growth across the province,” said Jean Habel, CanREA’s Senior Director for Québec and Atlantic Canada.  

Wind and solar energy, coupled with energy storage capacity, can contribute to a decarbonized energy grid, create local economic benefits and improve the resilience of the electricity system.

CanREA will continue to engage with Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and the government of Newfoundland and Labrador to ensure this RFEI process will result in the lowest-cost, highest-benefit outcomes for consumers.  

“This RFEI is a high-priority item for CanREA’s members in Atlantic Canada, and we are confident that it will build momentum in Newfoundland and Labrador over the coming years,” said Eddie Oldfield, CanREA’s Manager for Atlantic Canada. 

The deadline for questions is Friday, August 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. (NDT, and the RFEI bid closing date is Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 3 p.m. (NDT).

Quotes

“With this announcement, CanREA is now tracking wind energy, solar energy and energy storage activity coast-to-coast in Canada, with a clear focus on building clean energy projects at scale and pace.”

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

“Newfoundland and Labrador needs more power, and our members are ready to compete for the opportunity to develop wind, solar and battery storage projects to help meet these needs, provide affordable, reliable and clean electricity to Newfoundlanders and support economic growth across the province.”

—Jean Habel, Senior Director for Québec and Atlantic Canada, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

“This RFEI is a high-priority item for CanREA’s members in Atlantic Canada, and we are confident that it will build momentum in Newfoundland and Labrador over the coming years.”

—Eddie Oldfield, Atlantic Canada Manager, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

Canadian Renewable Energy Association 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA 

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

FortisBC announces upcoming call for power

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

CanREA applauds FortisBC for a new call for power that will expand market opportunities for the renewable energy industry in British Columbia.

Vancouver, July 4, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes a new call for power in British Columbia, to be launched later this year, as announced by FortisBC on July 3.

“This is the third call for power announced in BC in the past two years,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “This growing momentum demonstrates BC’s commitment to developing renewable energy and energy storage to contribute to the province’s energy security, clean economy and reconciliation goals.”

This is the next step after the Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) issued in 2024, which targeted up to 1,100 gigawatt hours (GWh) of energy supply.

This call for power will be offered by invitation only to the successful RFEOI participants. Projects must have a minimum of 25% equity participation by First Nations and directly connect to the Fortis Electricity system in the Southern Interior. The focus will be on wind projects that can provide energy in the winter.

“We are encouraged to see FortisBC prioritize the development of projects with significant Indigenous equity participation,” said Patricia Lightburn, CanREA’s BC Director. “New wind energy projects will quickly deliver economic development opportunities to First Nations and other local communities, while helping to meet BC’s growing demand for clean electricity.”

BC recently passed legislation to streamline regulatory approvals that will help get these projects online sooner, without compromising on environmental protection and community engagement.

Going forward, CanREA will engage with FortisBC to inform the call for power.

Quotes

“This is the third call for power announced in BC in the past two years. This growing momentum demonstrates BC’s commitment to developing renewable energy and energy storage to contribute to the province’s energy security, clean economy and reconciliation goals.”

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

“We are encouraged to see FortisBC prioritize the development of projects with significant Indigenous equity participation. New wind energy projects will quickly deliver economic development opportunities to First Nations and other local communities, while helping to meet BC’s growing demand for clean electricity.”

—Patricia Lightburn, BC Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA 

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

Five years already! 

Posted on by Michaela Ianni

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association celebrates 5th anniversary.

Ottawa, June 30, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is proud to celebrate its fifth anniversary on July 1, 2025. CanREA launched on July 1, 2020, during the global pandemic, as the merger of Canada’s wind and solar industry associations (CanWEA and CanSIA), with the important addition of energy storage to the mandate. 

Created to provide a unified voice for solar energy, wind energy, and energy storage in Canada, CanREA has since grown to a total of more than 330 members, with seven member Networks (federal, BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan & Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada) and three national Programs (Operators, BTM Solar & Storage, and Utility GRID Integration), as well as four successful annual Summits, nearly 30 staff members, 10 annual networking events, an ongoing series of industry webinars, and the second-largest social media community of all the Canadian trade associations in any sector. 

“I want to thank our members for their support over the past five years, which has enabled our advocacy work and helped secure many key successes for the industry so far. This five-year milestone is an occasion to look back and see how far we have come, but more importantly, to look ahead. CanREA is committed to advancing the Canadian wind, solar and energy storage industries for the next five years, and for many more years to come,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.   

CanREA is marking the anniversary by launching a new Awards Program, and other activities throughout the year.  

Top 5 priorities for 2025-26  

As we enter our new fiscal year on July 1, 2025, CanREA has defined five ambitious new strategic objectives to guide our priorities. These include: 

  1. Executing a comprehensive advocacy plan to effectively respond to evolving government mandates; 
  1. Optimizing outcomes for ongoing procurement processes in Ontario, BC and Quebec;  
  1. Executing on our new BTM strategy;  
  1. Building strategic alliances to enhance key messaging, collect information on project economics, and advocate for infrastructure and other support initiatives, including energy corridors opportunities; 
  1. All the while providing excellent membership value for all our members. 

Top 10 accomplishments: Annual report card 2024-25 

Looking back on the past year, there is a lot for CanREA—and the industry—to celebrate. Here is a recap of Top Ten accomplishments of 2024-5, starting with the most recent items: 

  1. Advocacy in Ontario: CanREA successfully worked to reduce barriers and improve clarity for access to agricultural land and Crown land, shaping the LT2 contracts and RFPs that were launched in late June. This is the first time in a decade the industry can bid on new wind and solar projects in Ontario!
  1. Advocacy in Manitoba: CanREA expanded the Saskatchewan Network to include Manitoba this year and devoted a Policy Director to this mandate. CanREA’s recommendations to Manitoba’s Minister of Finance were reflected in Manitoba Hydro’s 600 MW Call for Power for Indigenous Majority-Owned Wind, for which the Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) was issued in June.  
  1. Indigenous engagement: This year, CanREA’s new Director of Indigenous Engagement led efforts to enhance Indigenous cultural awareness for the staff and Board of Directors, develop the outline for CanREA’s Indigenous Reconciliation Action Roadmap, expand the Indigenous Business Pavilion at ETC, and collaborate with Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) to present CanREA’s Manitoba Wind Energy Indigenous Equity Summit in June.
  1. Advocacy in BC: CanREA expanded its presence to BC this year, with a new BC Director, a new BC Network, and a MOU with Clean Energy BC. CanREA is now working with BC Hydro to support the integration of renewables into the grid in its new Call for Power, announced in May, and its two new requests for expressions of interest relevant to energy storage, announced in June. 
  1. Advocacy in Quebec: CanREA successfully worked to optimize the ongoing procurement process in Quebec. One highlight: in May, Hydro-Québec launched a 300 MW solar energy tender. This milestone represents the first major solar procurement in Quebec, part of a broader objective to develop 3,000 MW of solar capacity by 2035.  
  1. Utilities: CanREA launched a new Utility GRID Integration program in May. Evolving from CanREA’s NRCan-funded Electricity Transition Hub, the program helps members integrate clean, affordable and reliable electricity into Canada’s power grids.    
  1. Go Solar Guide 2025: In March, CanREA’s new BTM Solar and Storage Program launched a new and improved edition of our annual Go Solar Guide, encouraging more Canadians to generate their own solar energy at home and work, and listing of all CanREA’s solar installer members. Now available as a web portal, the information is free and accessible to all.  
  1. Advocacy in Atlantic Canada: CanREA is building momentum in Atlantic Canada, enabled by a new, full-time Policy Manager based in New Brunswick. Our renewed advocacy efforts have led to policy wins across the region, including the Nova Scotia Green Choice Program RFP, which awarded 625 MW of wind in January, nearly double the original call for 350 MW. 
  1. ITCs: CanREA successfully advocated with the federal government to optimize and accelerate the Investment Tax Credits (ITCs) in Canada, as the Clean Tech ITC was implemented into law in the fall.
  1. Procurement calendar: In October, CanREA launched a new Clean Energy Procurement Calendar, which we continue to monitor and update as new procurements get announced or come online across the nation. 

Quotes 

“I want to thank our members for their support over the past five years, which has enabled our advocacy work and helped secure many key successes for the industry so far. This five-year milestone is an occasion to look back and see how far we have come, but more importantly, to look ahead. CanREA is committed to advancing the Canadian wind, solar and energy storage industries for the next five years, and for many more years to come.”  

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:  

Communications
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
communications@renewablesassociation.ca

About CanREA  

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca. 

Ontario issues Long-Term 2 RFPs for new-build energy and capacity resources

Posted on by Michaela Ianni

CanREA celebrates the industry’s first opportunity in a decade to propose new affordable wind and solar projects in Ontario.  

Toronto, June 30, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes Ontario’s launch of the Long-Term 2 (LT2) competitive procurements for new-build energy and capacity resources, issued Friday by the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO).  

This marks the renewable energy industry’s first opportunity in a decade to propose new affordable wind and solar projects in Ontario, and provides continued opportunities for energy storage projects, a growing technology asset in Ontario’s electricity supply mix. 

“Ontario needs more power, and renewables and energy storage will contribute significantly to meeting this need. Together with local community and Indigenous partners, our members are ready to compete for the opportunity to provide affordable, reliable and clean electricity to Ontario families and businesses and support economic growth across the province,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.  

LT2 is a series of competitive procurements for new-build electricity generation resources through annual intake windows over the next four years (2025-2028). This first window of the LT2 RFPs consists of the LT2 Window 1 Energy RFP targeting 3 terawatt-hours (TWh) of new energy-producing resources, including wind and solar, and the LT2 Window 1 Capacity RFP, targeting 600 megawatts (MW) of new capacity resources, including energy storage.  

In total over the four intake windows, the LT2 energy stream aims to procure up to 14 TWh of new energy-producing resources and the LT2 capacity stream is targeting up to 1,600 MW of new capacity resources. 

As the lowest-cost source of new, quickly deployable electricity generation available worldwide today, renewables are a critical part of the solution for Ontario’s growing energy needs.  

“This procurement is a high priority item for our members and their Indigenous and municipal partners in Ontario. We’re excited that these first in a series of annual RFPs have now been issued, building momentum and consistent investment opportunities for renewable and storage projects in Ontario over the coming years,” said Eric Muller, CanREA’s Director for Ontario. 

While CanREA’s members continue to prepare their project proposals for the fall and foster partnerships with Indigenous communities and municipalities, CanREA will continue to engage with government ministries and agencies on permitting, siting and land-use rules and regulations to ensure that these energy and capacity procurements result in the lowest-cost, highest-benefit outcomes for Ontarians.  

Quotes 

“Ontario needs more power, and renewables and energy storage will contribute significantly to meeting this need. Together with local community and Indigenous partners, our members are ready to compete for the opportunity to provide affordable, reliable and clean electricity to Ontario families and businesses and support economic growth across the province.”  

—Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

“This procurement is a high priority item for our members and their Indigenous and municipal partners in Ontario. We’re excited that these first in a series of annual RFPs have now been issued, building momentum and consistent investment opportunities for renewable and storage projects in Ontario over the coming years.” 

—Eric Muller, Ontario Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:  

Communications
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
communications@renewablesassociation.ca

About CanREA  

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.