Category: News Release

As Events Director, Carole Brault will be responsible for the development, planning and implementation of CanREA’s conferences and events.

Ottawa, September 25, 2023—CanREA is pleased to welcome Carole Brault as CanREA’s new Director of Events. She will be responsible for the development, planning and implementation of CanREA’s conferences and events, leading our events team and fostering the growth of our events program.

Carole is a Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) who previously worked as the Manager of Events at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

“I am thrilled to be joining CanREA as the Director of Events,” she said. “I am looking forward to working alongside passionate colleagues and stakeholders to build on the success of CanREA’s past events, providing stellar opportunities that foster education, dialogue, collaboration, networking and growth for the renewable energy sector.”

Carole is based in Ottawa. To see CanREA’s growing roster of professionals serving Canada’s renewable energy industry, visit the “Our team” webpage.

CanREA congratulates CanREA members and Indigenous partners for new project funding from Natural Resources Canada’s SREPs Program.

Calgary, Alberta, September 18, 2023—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) celebrates the announcement today of more than $175M in federal support for 12 wind energy, solar energy and microgrid projects in Alberta, via Natural Resources Canada’s Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs).

CanREA’s President and CEO, Vittoria Bellissimo, joined The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s Minister of Labour and Seniors, Capstone Infrastructure’s Senior Project Manager, Sohail Aslam, Councillor Bradley Rabbit of the Montana First Nation, as well as media and invited guests, for a press conference in Calgary today.

“CanREA welcomes this federal investment in Indigenous-led clean energy projects, which will create jobs and opportunities for Albertans while also helping the province deliver on its decarbonization goals,” Bellissimo said in her remarks.

The funding will be allocated to the following new projects:

• CanREA Industry Leader Member, Pattern Energy Group LP. The Lanfine Wind 1 project, an onshore wind project in eastern Alberta, will be supported by a federal investment of over $20 million. The 150-MW facility is expected to generate clean energy for up to 45,000 homes.
• CanREA Terawatt Member, Capstone Infrastructure Corporation, in partnership with Sawridge First Nation. The Buffalo Atlee project includes four wind farm sites near Jenner, Alberta. These four projects are supported by a combined $60-million federal investment. They are expected to produce over 200,000 megawatt-hours per year, enough to supply electricity for about 26,200 Albertan homes annually.
• CanREA Terawatt Member, Renewable Energy Systems Canada. The Hilda Wind Power Project in Cypress County, Alberta, will be supported by a federal investment of over $17.5 million. The project is expected to add 105.4 MW of wind energy, enough to power 32,000 households.
• CanREA Terawatt Member, ATCO. A federal investment of over $62 million will support work to modernize assets, upgrade systems and deploy advanced metering infrastructure across rural, remote and urban Alberta communities to optimize electricity grid management and operations. This will improve outage responses and enable customer options such as time-of-use pricing through multiple projects.
• Along with the Chiniki and Goodstoney First Nations, ATCO will also deploy the largest solar installation in an urban centre in Western Canada, supported by a federal investment of over $13 million. Located in southeast Calgary, the Barlow and Deerfoot solar facilities are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50,000 tonnes annually and to generate economic returns for the First Nations’ communities. This is in addition to $78.8 million in support from the Canada Infrastructure Bank to enable the majority equity ownership of the project by both First Nations.
• Akamihk Energy, a 100-percent Montana First Nation-owned company, will receive a federal investment of $1 million to investigate the potential to integrate all electricity distribution infrastructure and service on Montana First Nation’s lands into a consolidated microgrid, manage energy flows within that grid, and meter exchange to the Alberta Interconnected Electric System.

“I want to congratulate these CanREA member companies and wish them success with their upcoming projects,” said Bellissimo.

These projects will help create good jobs and economic opportunities in Alberta communities, including First Nations communities, and will provide Alberta with affordable, clean power for years to come

Quotes

“CanREA welcomes this federal investment in Indigenous-led clean energy projects, which will create jobs and opportunities for Albertans while also helping the province deliver on its decarbonization goals. I want to congratulate these CanREA member companies and wish them success with their upcoming projects.”

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

“The Government of Canada is investing to deliver more affordable, reliable and clean power in every region of Canada. Today’s federal investment in Indigenous and industry-led projects will create jobs delivering power to communities across Alberta as we seize the economic opportunities of a low-carbon future.”

—The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

“The clean energy future is here. It’s creating good jobs and more prosperity in Alberta and across Canada.”

—The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Labour and Seniors

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
613-227-5378
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 Twitter and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Become a member here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.

Canada announces foundational measures to enable the decarbonization of electricity production by 2035.

Toronto, Ontario, August 10, 2023—CanREA joined Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada Steven Guilbeault for the announcement of the Federal Government’s new draft Clean Electricity Regulations today.

“In 2021, CanREA’s 2050 Vision, Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero, defined a “to-do list” that will enable Canada to get to net-zero. Task #1 called on Canada to put in place foundational measures to enable the decarbonization of electricity production by 2035. And that’s why I am so pleased to be here today for the announcement of the Federal Government’s draft Clean Electricity Regulations,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO, in her remarks.

“As a pan-Canadian member association, CanREA is happy to see that these Regulations are drafted in such a way as to set the destination, which is net-zero, but to let provinces and companies pick their path to get there,” said Bellissimo. 

CanREA has long been calling for a massive increase in the deployment of new wind energy, solar energy and energy storage. These technologies will need to provide two-thirds of the electricity required to decarbonize the economy in the coming decades. In fact, getting to net-zero will require Canada to install more than 5,000 MW of new wind and solar annually between now and 2050.

Why are they the solution? Because they work, because they are ready today, and because they are the most affordable way to meet Canada’s net-zero targets. 

To achieve these goals, we need to remove barriers to the development of a thriving, sustainable renewable energy and energy storage industry in Canada.

The Clean Electricity Regulations create a clear market signal for the further deployment of renewable electricity from coast-to-coast-to-coast that will spur significant new investments in Canada.

“This is an exciting moment for our industry in Canada, as there are massive opportunities on the horizon for renewable energy and energy storage,” said Bellissimo.

They will also translate into increased economic opportunity for Indigenous communities and companies, something that many CanREA members support, as their business models are increasingly based on partnerships with Indigenous Peoples.

CanREA represents Canada’s leading wind, solar and energy storage companies, working to build a more reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity system across Canada. 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 Vison.”

Photos

Quotes

“In 2021, CanREA’s 2050 Vision, Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero, defined a “to-do list” that will enable Canada to get to net-zero. Task #1 called on Canada to put in place foundational measures to enable the decarbonization of electricity production by 2035. And that’s why I am so pleased to be here today for the announcement of the Federal Government’s draft Clean Electricity Regulations.

“As a pan-Canadian member association, CanREA is happy to see that these Regulations are drafted in such a way as to set the destination, which is net-zero, but to let provinces and companies pick their path to get there.”

“This is an exciting moment for our industry in Canada, as there are massive opportunities on the horizon for renewable energy and energy storage.”

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

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
647-268-3382
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 Twitter and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Become a member here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.

CanREA to work with provincial government and municipalities to re-open Alberta market ASAP

Edmonton, Alberta, August 3, 2023—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) met with Alberta’s Minister of Affordability and Utilities today and expressed strong concern about the announcement of a seven-month pause on renewable energy project approvals in the province.

CanREA will continue to meet with the Minister and his staff, as well as the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC), with the aim of minimizing the duration of the moratorium and creating clarity on its consequences.

“This is a mistake. The Alberta Government, Alberta Utilities Commission and Alberta Electric System Operator need to move quickly to sort out this situation for all Alberta ratepayers, investors and municipalities,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.

CanREA is concerned that this decision will have negative consequences for investor confidence in Alberta and undermine “the Alberta Advantage”—Alberta has led Canada in new renewable energy development, representing 75% of Canada’s growth last year alone.

CanREA also stressed that renewable energy development represents a fast-moving global marketplace, characterized by labour mobility and an international supply chain for these technologies. International investors can and will target their capital to other provinces and countries that allow for revenue stability and investor certainty.

“Alberta has benefitted from market advantages that have allowed the industry to thrive here, which has benefitted our communities, consumers and landowners. We must not lose this competitive advantage,” said Bellissimo.

The pause is intended to review policies and procedures for the development of renewable electricity generation, primarily focused on land-use issues.

CanREA has already been working constructively with stakeholders in many rural communities and will continue to present clear facts and positive solutions to resolve any concerns around reclamation and co-location with agriculture in its discussions with Alberta’s regulatory authorities.

As noted in this piece by CanREA’s Vice-President of Policy for Western Canada, Evan Wilson, Alberta’s renewable energy industry is already well regulated and rooted in strong policies and robust community engagement practices.

Wind and solar are the most affordable forms of new electricity generation available on the market today. Policy changes that reduce opportunities for renewables in Alberta will not lower prices for consumers. In fact, a pause will negatively impact ratepayers and limit consumer choice, which will be especially impactful for Alberta communities who are expecting revenue from new renewable energy development.

Further, corporate Power Purchase Agreements in Alberta have clearly indicated the desire of large customers for clean energy solutions, and this moratorium derails the pathway to achieve their objectives.

Moreover, a pause on renewable energy project approvals harms Alberta’s ability to negotiate with the federal government for support to advance Alberta’s own net-zero goals, such as the new Investment Tax Credits for Clean Energy which will be rolled out this year.

“There has never been a better time or more support available to develop renewable energy resources. CanREA will continue to work closely with the provincial government and municipalities to re-open the Alberta market ASAP,” said Bellissimo.

Quotes

“This is a mistake. The Alberta Government, Alberta Utilities Commission and Alberta Electric System Operator need to move quickly to sort out this situation for all Alberta ratepayers, investors and municipalities. Alberta has benefitted from market advantages that have allowed the industry to thrive here, which has benefitted our communities and consumers. We must not lose this competitive advantage. There has never been a better time or more support available to develop renewable energy resources. CanREA will continue to work closely with the provincial government and municipalities to re-open the Alberta market ASAP.”

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

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
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 Twitter and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Become a member here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.  

SaskPower will add a combined 600 MW of renewable-energy opportunities of interest to CanREA members in Saskatchewan.

Regina, Saskatchewan, July 21, 2023—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes SaskPower’s new request for supplier qualifications (RFSQ) for two 200-MW wind-energy projects in south-central Saskatchewan, launched on July 17.

This request came just days before the closing of SaskPower’s recent RSFQ for two 100-MW solar-energy projects in the same region, first launched on June 22.

These two requests represent a combined 600 MW of renewable-energy opportunities of interest to CanREA members in Saskatchewan. 

“I’m excited to see SaskPower procuring an additional 600 MW of wind and solar energy for the provincial electricity grid,” said Erwin Heuck, Director for Saskatchewan at CanREA. “This move reaffirms their commitment to adding 3 GW of renewable generation to the grid by 2035.”

This announcement is an impressive boost to Saskatchewan’s rapidly growing renewables sector. In 2022, the province added 377 MW of installed wind capacity and 10 MW of installed solar capacity, according to CanREA’s most recent data report. The new announcements indicate a commitment to significant growth, far surpassing last year’s totals.

“This is a powerful boost for Saskatchewan’s renewables sector and CanREA members are well-positioned to continue advancing wind and solar energy in the province,” said Heuck.

Qualified applicants are encouraged to submit before the closing date on August 24, 2023. More information about the RSFQ and other bid opportunities can be found at MERX.com.

Quotes

“I’m excited to see SaskPower procuring an additional 600 MW of wind and solar energy for the provincial electricity grid. This move reaffirms their commitment to adding 3 GW of renewable generation to the grid by 2035.”

“This is a powerful boost for Saskatchewan’s renewables sector and CanREA members are well-positioned to continue advancing wind and solar energy in the province.”

—Erwin Heuck, Director for Saskatchewan at CanREA

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
647-268-3382
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 Twitter and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Become a member here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.

Registration now open for Canada’s premier renewable energy and energy storage conference and exhibition

July 20, 2023 (Calgary, Alberta) – Canada’s premier clean energy conference and exhibition is heading to Calgary, Alberta. Happening October 23-25 at the BMO Centre, Electricity Transformation Canada (ETC) will feature a value-packed educational program and more than 100 exhibitors, making it the largest ETC yet.

ETC 2023 will showcase progress, policies and success stories on the pathway to net-zero, aiming to inspire attendees. This platform is the ideal place for renewable-energy and energy-storage leaders to network, collaborate and move the industry forward, showcasing technology solutions from distributors, engineers, investors, installers and manufacturers.

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.

“We are looking forward to bringing ETC to Calgary this year, with a program that presents innovations in wind energy, solar energy and energy storage, looking even more broadly to the full transformation of the electricity sector in Canada,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.

In addition to the exhibition, ETC will host informative educational sessions and engaging discussions with industry experts, government officials, and stakeholders. These sessions will delve into the innovative technologies, policies, and investments that have driven Canada’s renewable energy success and future.

“There has never been a more exciting time to help expand the clean energy industry throughout Canada,” said Stephen Miner, President, and CEO, RE+ Events. “Our goal with Electricity Transformation Canada is to support the renewable companies that strengthen the Canadian clean energy market and partnering with CanREA creates a powerful platform.”

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.

Registration and housing for ETC 2023 are now open! For more information, please visit electricitytransformation.ca.

Quotes

“We are looking forward to bringing ETC to Calgary this year, with a program that presents innovations in wind energy, solar energy and energy storage, looking even more broadly to the full transformation of the electricity sector in Canada.”

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

“There has never been a more exciting time to help expand the clean energy industry throughout Canada. Our goal with Electricity Transformation Canada is to support the renewable companies that strengthen the Canadian clean energy market and partnering with CanREA creates a powerful platform.”

—Stephen Miner, President, and CEO, RE+ Events

Media inquiries:

To request a media pass, please click here.

To request an interview about this release, please contact:

Traci Huggans, Manager, International Events & Memberships Marketing, RE+ Events, thuggans@re-plus.com

Communications, Canadian Renewable Energy Association, communications@renewableassociation.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. 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.”

About RE+ Events

RE+ Events is a global event management organization with a focus on the clean energy industry. Our flagship event, RE+ 2022 (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.

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) filed a submission as part of the Quebec government’s consultation on the regulation and development of clean energy.

Montreal, July 20, 2023 – The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) published a submission today as part of the Quebec government’s consultation on the regulation and development of clean energy, outlining a number of recommendations for modernizing the province’s energy sector.

The Quebec government launched the consultation process to gather ideas from the public and experts on how the legal and regulatory framework governing the province’s energy sector can be modernized.

“Renewable energy is key to a successful energy transition,” says Jean Habel, CanREA’s Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada. “CanREA’s submission is a call to action for us all to seize this opportunity to act, propose more agile electricity generation solutions, and enshrine in law the province’s 2050 net zero target, in the interest of sustainable development.”

CanREA’s recommendations 

CanREA’s recommendations for Quebec to meet its current and future energy needs and achieve net zero by 2050 include:

1. Enshrining in law the government’s pledge to achieve net zero by 2050 through sustainable development.
2. Encouraging the integration of distributed energy resources into Quebec’s electricity mix, including net metering and energy storage.
3. Allowing agreements for the supply of electricity on (or near, provided that certain criteria are met) sites where the electricity is generated and/or used.
4. Formulating an integrated energy resource plan.
5. Enhancing and clarifying the role of the Régie de l’Énergie.

“Our collective vision for a successful energy transition must also include considerations of environmental, social justice and economic development issues,” says Habel. “Many of CanREA’s recommendations address these issues and provide meaningful benchmarks for achieving net zero by 2050.”

Summary of key recommendations

Make the transition to a net-zero future by 2050

Achieving net zero requires all Quebec stakeholders to take action for the energy transition process. Only by working together can we reduce greenhouse-gas emissions from Quebec’s industrial, transportation and construction sectors and ensure that our economic development is environmentally sustainable.

Stakeholder collaboration will play a decisive role in government policy and decision making. For this reason, CanREA recommends enshrining Quebec’s 2050 net zero target in the Sustainable Development Act and the Act respecting the Régie de l’énergie.

Seize the opportunity to diversify our energy sources

Every kilowatt of renewable energy brings climate goals one step closer. But progress needs to be made on several fronts at once: we need to simultaneously boost production, meet increased demand for energy efficiency solutions, and mitigate the impacts of peak demand.

One way that the Quebec government can expand access to decarbonization solutions and break new ground in clean-energy regulation is to legalize alternative forms of electricity supply: Quebec can become more agile in its electricity generation by encouraging net metering and allowing agreements in which power producers can provide electricity consumers with electricity on the sites where the electricity is generated and/or used. Most such agreements could only proceed after Hydro-Québec chose whether or not to exercise its right of refusal, and projects of 5 megawatts or more would be subject to specific requirements.

Reimagine energy resource planning 

According to Hydro-Québec’s Strategic Plan 2022–2026, more than 100 TWh of additional renewable energy will be required to attain net zero in Quebec by 2050. Achieving this ambitious goal requires alignment across the renewable-energy supply chain, from generation to transmission to distribution.

The government’s intent to formulate an integrated energy-resource plan is therefore promising. Such a plan would set the stage for greater collaboration and more effective long-term planning of our energy needs over the next 25 years, allowing our future energy needs to be met in a predictable, consistent and sustainable manner.

CanREA suggests that this plan be created in consultation with stakeholders, reviewed by the Régie de l’Énergie and approved by the government.

Quotes

“Renewable energy is key to a successful energy transition. CanREA’s submission for the Quebec government’s consultation on clean energy is a clear call to action for us all to seize this opportunity to act, propose more agile electricity generation solutions, and enshrine in law the province’s 2050 net-zero target, in the interest of sustainable development.”

“Our collective vision for a successful energy transition must include an environmental component, a social justice component and an economic development component. Many of CanREA’s recommendations take these considerations into account and provide meaningful benchmarks for achieving net zero by 2050.”

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

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

Virginie Aubé Pelletier 
Advisor, TACT 
514-243-0329 
vapelletier@tactconseil.ca

Bridget Wayland, Senior Director of 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 Twitter and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Become a member here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.  

Leonard Kula will lead policy development and government relations in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, as well as oversee CanREA’s Technical and Utility Affairs.

Toronto, July 17 2023—CanREA welcomes Leonard Kula as its new Vice President of Policy—Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs. In this newly created role, Leonard will join CanREA’s Executive Team, lead our policy development and government relations team in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, and oversee Technical and Utility Affairs, which includes the Operations Program team and CanREA’s Electricity Transition Hub team.

“Leonard is a seasoned expert with more than 35 years of experience in the electricity sector and in-depth knowledge relating to the electricity systems in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.

“We are fortunate to have Leonard join us at this critical time for the future development and integration of solar, wind and energy storage across the country. He brings comprehensive electricity-system leadership and experience that will help CanREA be proactive in ensuring our technologies thrive and bring value to ratepayers during the ongoing energy transition.”

After holding a range of roles at Ontario Hydro for 13 years, Leonard joined Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) at its inception in 1999. He fulfilled various roles during his 23 years at the IESO, notably as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. In this capacity, he led a team of 300 people with responsibility for the reliable and efficient operation of the Ontario power system. This included long-term planning of transmission and supply resources, market design, resource procurement, real-time market and power system operations, engineering, and the Market Renewal Program.

In addition, from 2017-2022, Kula served on the Board of Directors of the Northeast Power Coordinating Council (NPCC), enhancing power system reliability in Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, New York and New England. NPCC is one of six regional reliability entities supporting NERC (the North American Electric Reliability Corporation).

“I am very excited to join CanREA—and to continue supporting power system reliability and affordability,” said Kula. “Governments, communities and businesses are exploring ways to shift away from fossil fuel-based energy. They are looking to clean electricity systems to power this transformation. CanREA members—developing and delivering electrical energy from renewables and storage—are well-positioned to help build the net-zero future.”

Leonard holds an MBA (York University), as well as both a MASc (University of Waterloo) and a BSc (University of Calgary) in Mechanical Engineering. He is based near Toronto.

To see CanREA’s growing roster of professionals serving Canada’s renewable energy industry, visit the “Our team” webpage. https://renewablesassociation.ca/team/

Quotes

“Leonard is a seasoned expert with more than 35 years of experience in the electricity sector and in-depth knowledge relating to the electricity systems in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. We are fortunate to have Leonard join us at this critical time for the future development and integration of solar, wind and energy storage across the country. He brings comprehensive electricity system leadership and experience that will help CanREA be proactive in ensuring our technologies thrive and bring value to ratepayers during the ongoing energy transition.”

—Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO

“I am very excited to join CanREA—and to continue supporting power system reliability and affordability. Governments, communities and businesses are exploring ways to shift away from fossil fuel-based energy. They are looking to clean electricity systems to power this transformation. CanREA members—developing and delivering electrical energy from renewables and storage—are well-positioned to help build the net-zero future.”

—Leonard Kula, CanREA’s incoming VP Policy—Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs

About the Canadian Renewable Energy Association

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 ene

As Federal Director, Fernando Melo will support CanREA’s members on federal government engagement priorities

Ottawa, July 10, 2023—CanREA is pleased to announce its new Federal Director, Fernando Melo, who will lead federal government relations efforts and manage CanREA’s Federal Network (member caucus).

Melo will support CanREA’s members on federal government engagement priorities, including the Clean Technology, Clean Electricity and Clean Hydrogen Investment Tax Credits (ITCs), the recapitalization of the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways (SREPs) program, and the publication of the Clean Electricity Regulations (CER).  

“Fernando could not be joining CanREA at a better, more exciting time,” said Evan Wilson, CanREA’s VP of Policy—Western Canada and National Affairs, “and we are thankful to be putting these critical files into his capable hands.”

Before joining CanREA, Melo worked as a clean energy and technology public affairs consultant at PAA Advisory and Global Public Affairs, helping organizations find opportunities in Canada’s transition to a net-zero economy, and as a federal policy advisor at Clean Energy Canada.

“CanREA and its members have been leading Canada’s charge to reach net zero, and I am absolutely thrilled to be part of this electrifying team,” said Melo.

To see CanREA’s growing roster of professionals serving Canada’s renewable energy industry, visit the “Our Team” webpage.

Melo is based in Ottawa.

Quotes

“Fernando could not be joining CanREA at a better, more exciting time, and we are thankful to be putting these critical files into his capable hands.”

—Evan Wilson, CanREA’s VP of Policy—Western Canada and National Affairs

“CanREA and its members have been leading Canada’s charge to reach net zero, and I am absolutely thrilled to be part of this electrifying team.”

—Fernando Melo, CanREA’s incoming Federal Director

About the Canadian Renewable Energy Association

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 Vison.” Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Become a member here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca

New Ontario Government report outlines a plan for stable, predictable procurement schedules for energy, including solar and wind. 

Windsor, Ontario, July 10, 2023—CanREA joined Energy Minister Todd Smith today for the launch of the Ontario government’s new “Powering Ontario’s Growth” report, which indicates a commitment to procuring energy sources including solar and wind, and to do so via regular, transparent procurements.  

“CanREA applauds the Ontario government for enabling stable, predictable procurement schedules for clean electricity projects as part of this announcement,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “CanREA members will play a key role in meeting Ontario’s energy needs affordably with solar, wind and energy storage.”  

In this report, the Government provides a long-term vision for the decarbonization of the energy sector in Ontario, in response to the IESO’s Pathways to Decarbonization (P2D) report, released last December, which indicated that Ontario would need close to 70GW of new, non-emitting electricity generation by 2050 to meet a critical shortfall.  

“CanREA also appreciates that the Ontario government sees value to Ontario ratepayers in advancing Distributed Energy Resources. Our members are experts in this area and are already working hard to bring DERs to market,” said Bellissimo. 

Indeed, increasing the province’s supply of clean electricity meshes well with its new and growing energy storage capacity. Many CanREA member companies have already been successful in the first phase of the ongoing energy storage procurement, as announced last May.

This new report contains positive signals for moving towards decarbonization and addressing the province’s growing need for renewable energy and energy storage, including long-duration storage options.  

“Together, we will help build a more reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity system for Ontario,” said Bellissimo. 

CanREA represents Canada’s leading wind, solar and energy storage companies, working to build a more reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity system for the future of Ontario and across Canada. 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 Vison.” 

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Quotes

“CanREA applauds the Ontario government for enabling stable, predictable procurement schedules for clean electricity projects as part of this announcement. CanREA members will play a key role in meeting Ontario’s energy needs affordably with solar, wind and energy storage.

“CanREA also appreciates that the Ontario government sees value to Ontario ratepayers in advancing Distributed Energy Resources. Our members are experts in this area and are already working hard to bring DERs to market,”

“Together, we will help build a more reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity system for Ontario.”

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

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
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 Twitter and LinkedIn. Subscribe to our newsletter here. Become a member here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.