Category: News Release

Vittoria Bellissimo will move into the role on October 31, 2022

Ottawa, October 13, 2022—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) today named Vittoria Bellissimo as its incoming President and CEO, effective October 31, 2022, replacing Robert Hornung who is retiring from the role.

“I am delighted to welcome Vittoria as the new President and CEO of CanREA,” said Jason Chee-Aloy, Chair of CanREA’s Board of Directors.

“Wind energy and solar energy are Canada’s lowest-cost sources of new electricity generation and, coupled with energy storage, will be critical to Canada’s efforts to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We are pleased that Vittoria will continue CanREA’s work to enable Canada to capitalize on its massive untapped renewable energy potential.”

Vittoria comes to CanREA after more than 10 years of working with electricity customers as the Executive Director of the Industrial Power Consumers Association of Alberta and almost 20 years in the electricity sector. Previously, she worked in renewable energy procurement at both the Ontario Ministry of Energy and the Ontario Power Authority.

“I am excited to take on this role at a time when Canada must dramatically increase its use of wind, solar and energy storage to meet its climate change commitments,” said Bellissimo.

“CanREA’s 300+ members are leaders in Canada’s energy transition, and I look forward to advocating on their behalf for the policy, regulatory and market changes required to enable the responsible, sustainable, and accelerated deployment of these technologies.”

Net-zero pathway studies consistently conclude that wind and solar energy must be the primary sources of new electricity generation in Canada. These sources are vital as we move to decarbonize and expand our electricity production to support greenhouse gas emission reductions across the economy in sectors like transportation, buildings, and heavy industry. This is because wind and solar energy are the lowest-cost sources of new electricity generation, new developments are scalable and can be rapidly deployed, and Canada has massive untapped wind and solar energy resources.

“In my 19+ years with CanREA and the Canadian Wind Energy Association, wind and solar energy have moved from the margins to the mainstream,” said CanREA’s outgoing President and CEO, Robert Hornung.

“I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to play a role in this transformation and confident that Vittoria and the excellent CanREA team will successfully advocate for Canada to take the steps required to make CanREA’s 2050 Vision a reality.”

CanREA’s 2050 Vision, Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero, demonstrates that Canada will need to increase its installed wind and solar energy capacity ten-fold by 2050 to achieve its net-zero commitment.

“The CanREA Board would like to thank Robert Hornung for his many years of leadership and service to the industry and his role as the founding President and CEO of CanREA,” said Chee-Aloy. “We wish him the very best in his retirement and future endeavours.” CanREA members, and members of the media, can meet CanREA’s new CEO, Vittoria Bellissimo, at the Electricity Transformation Canada conference and exhibition in Toronto on October 26 to 28, 2022.

Quotes

“I am delighted to welcome Vittoria as the new President and CEO of CanREA. Wind energy and solar energy are Canada’s lowest cost sources of new electricity generation and, coupled with energy storage, will be critical to Canada’s efforts to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We are pleased that Vittoria will continue CanREA’s work to enable Canada to capitalize on its massive untapped renewable energy potential.”

—Jason Chee-Aloy, Chair of CanREA’s Board of Directors

“I am excited to take on this role at a time when Canada must dramatically increase its use of wind, solar and energy storage to meet its climate change commitments. CanREA’s 300+ members are leaders in Canada’s energy transition, and I look forward to advocating on their behalf for the policy, regulatory and market changes required to enable the responsible, sustainable, and accelerated deployment of these technologies.”

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

“In my 19+ years with CanREA and the Canadian Wind Energy Association, wind and solar energy have moved from the margins to the mainstream. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to play a role in this transformation and confident that Vittoria and the excellent CanREA team will successfully advocate for Canada to take the steps required to make CanREA’s 2050 Vision a reality.”

—Robert Hornung, outgoing President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association 

“The CanREA Board would like to thank Robert Hornung for his many years of leadership and service to the industry and his role as the founding President and CEO of CanREA. We wish him the very best in his retirement and future endeavours.”

—Jason Chee-Aloy, Chair of CanREA’s Board of Directors

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  

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
Communications@renewablesassociation.ca  

CanREA applauds Ontario’s decision to leverage storage and non-emitting resources to meet the province’s rapidly growing energy system needs 

Toronto, October 7, 2022— Ontario Minister of Energy Todd Smith has today directed the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) to proceed with procuring up to 2,500 MW of new energy storage and other non-emitting resources to meet the province’s rapidly growing energy system needs.  

“The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds the decision to procure up to 2,500 MW of energy storage and other non-emitting resources by 2027 to meet Ontario’s urgent electricity system capacity needs,” said Brandy Giannetta, CanREA’s Vice-President of Policy, Regulatory and Government Affairs.   

“Energy storage will help to enable more effective integration of the province’s generation resources while enhancing energy system resiliency and flexibility, and it can be quickly and safely deployed exactly where it can offer the greatest locational value to the grid,” said Giannetta.  

With the province’s abundant supply of critical minerals, a fast-growing battery manufacturing sector, and numerous companies and institutions at the forefront of energy storage research and innovation, Ontario is poised to be a leader in energy storage for many years to come.  

“As Ontario’s electricity demand continues to grow over the coming decade, we must ensure that energy storage capacity is able to charge from low-cost, non-emitting electricity,” said Giannetta.   

“As the lowest-cost generation technologies, new wind and solar generation will be key to meeting future supply needs affordably while protecting Ontario’s clean electricity advantage.”  

Background  

• Ontario’s electricity demand is projected to increase by approximately 15% over the next decade, reaching 168 million MWh by 2032. This sustained increase is driven by strong economic and population growth, coupled with the rapid electrification of transportation and industry.   

• At the same time, the upcoming retirement of the Pickering nuclear plant (approximately 14% of the province’s electricity supply) means that after many years of sufficient supply and stable demand, Ontario will soon need a significant volume of new generation capacity to maintain a safe and reliable electricity system.   

• Today, the Ontario electricity supply is approximately 90% non-emitting, thanks to the contributions of hydro, nuclear, wind and solar power. Maintaining this clean electricity advantage into the future will be essential, both to achieve the province’s emissions reduction objectives and to ensure that Ontario businesses remain globally competitive, and that Ontario continues to attract new investment in key sectors.   

• In a 2022 survey of over 300 of Ontario’s largest energy consumers, 85% reported either having implemented or planning to implement corporate clean electricity targets. 

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  

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
Communications@renewablesassociation.ca  

Mathieu Côté takes over leadership of CanREA’s National Operations Caucus, committees and working groups

Ottawa, September 19, 2022 – CanREA is thrilled to welcome our new Operations Program Director, Mathieu (Matt) Côté. 

Matt leads the National Operations Caucus, as well as all related committees and working groups focused on business and technical issues, such as asset management, site operations, health and safety, workforce development, construction, installation and decommissioning.   

“I am ecstatic to return to the Canadian renewables industry by joining the CanREA team,” he said. “Getting Canada to net-zero is the biggest issue of our lifetime, and to be able to move the needle on this challenge at a national level is incredibly fulfilling.”   

Matt comes to CanREA with ten years of industry experience, having worked for a Wind/Solar/Hydrogen developer in France in a business development role, as well for a major OEM in Quebec, Nova Scotia and the UK in Customer Relations Manager, Commercial Manager and Managing Director roles. He started his career commissioning the MAPLE Nuclear reactors in Ontario, designed to produce medical isotopes. He holds a B.Sc. in Physics from Dalhousie University. Matt is a proudly bilingual Franco-Ontarian, originally from Northern Ontario and now based in Montreal.  

He replaces Phil McKay, CanREA’s long-serving Senior Director of Operations, who has been promoted to a new role as Senior Director, CanREA Electricity Transition Hub. Our team is excited to see Phil drive this new initiative forward with his wealth of renewable energy operations expertise and the support of another new hire, Zhiming (Jim) Zhao, who comes to CanREA with 20-plus years of experience in the energy sector.  

For more information, consult the Team page on our website.  

CanREA applauds the Province’s investment to support green hydrogen production and lower greenhouse-gas emissions

Ottawa, September 22, 2022 – The Government of Nova Scotia announced on Tuesday that it has set a target to offer leases for five gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030.

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association applauds the Province’s move to bolster its emerging green hydrogen sector, creating job opportunities and reducing greenhouse-gas emissions.

“With its abundant wind resources and strong political commitment to increase renewable energy production, CanREA believes Nova Scotia is well-positioned to take a leadership role in the offshore wind energy industry in Canada,” said Jean Habel, CanREA’s Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada.

Offshore wind development leases will be granted through a competitive bidding process, managed by both the federal and Nova Scotia governments. The first call for bids is expected in 2025.

CanREA also looks forward to 2023, when the province is expected to release its green hydrogen action plan.

CanREA’s 2050 Vision has highlighted the important role green hydrogen must play in helping Canada, and the world, move toward net-zero GHG emissions in areas where electrification is more challenging, such as industrial processes and freight transportation.

“Our association is pleased to see the positive steps Nova Scotia is taking toward enacting policies that will attract renewable energy investment to Canada,” said Habel.

Quotes

“With its abundant wind resources and strong political commitment to increase renewable energy production, CanREA believes Nova Scotia is well-positioned to take a leadership role in the offshore wind energy industry in Canada.”

“Our association is pleased to see the positive steps Nova Scotia is taking toward enacting policies that will attract renewable energy investment to Canada.”

Jean Habel, CanREA Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada

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  

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
Communications@renewablesassociation.ca  

Ottawa, September 20, 2022 — RE+ Events, Hannover Fairs and the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) are proud to announce their new partnership for Electricity Transformation Canada (ETC), Canada’s premier renewable energy conference and exhibition.

This year’s ETC will take place October 26-28, at the Metro Toronto Convention Center, Toronto, Ontario.

“Canada has ambitious goals, to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by 40% from 2005 levels by 2030, and to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. This will mean radical, rapid transformation for our energy system. Luckily, the wind, solar and energy storage industries are up for the challenge,” said Robert Hornung, President and CEO of the Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

ETC will spotlight the necessity of rapidly expanding and accelerating the deployment of wind energy, solar energy and energy storage, and its integration into Canada’s electricity system, to support national greenhouse-gas emission-reduction objectives.

“ETC is a vital platform for the Canadian clean energy market. We are proud to support CanREA and ETC’s mission to create a sustainable, modern electricity system in Canada,” said Stephen Miner, President & CEO, RE+ Events.

This three-day event provides a platform for renewable energy leaders to network, collaborate and move the industry forward, showcasing the best wind, solar, and energy-storage solutions from distributors, engineers, financiers, installers and manufacturers.

“Wind and solar energy will play a key role in the energy transition. Our partnership with CanREA and RE+ Events will ensure ETC facilitates Canada’s goal to achieve net-zero by 2050,” said Bernd Rohde, Managing Director, Hannover Fairs México.

ETC was developed by the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA), in partnership with Hannover Fairs. The addition of RE+ Events to this existing partnership will contribute to even greater success in 2022 and beyond.

Prospective exhibitors are invited to book space. Registration is currently open.

 ***

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 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 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 Vison.”

About Hannover Fairs

Hannover Fairs (Canada) Inc., a subsidiary of Deutsche Messe – one of the world’s largest and most active event organizers – will deliver this unique multi-technology event, addressing the needs of generators, utilities, governments, businesses, and consumers.

Media Inquiries:

Danielle Danko, RE+ Events, ddanko@re-plus.com

Canadian Renewable Energy Association, 647-268-3382, communications@renewableassociation.ca

CanREA believes Canada’s vast untapped wind and solar energy resources position it to be a leader in this sector  

Ottawa, August 24, 2022 – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz have signed a joint Declaration of Intent to establish a Canada-Germany Hydrogen Alliance. The announcement was made on August 23rd in Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador.

The objective of the alliance is to enable Canada to begin exporting green hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources to Germany starting in 2025. Canada, with its vast untapped wind and solar energy resources, is well-positioned to be a leading supplier and exporter of green hydrogen.

“The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is pleased to see the Canadian and German governments’ desire to capitalize on Canada’s significant green hydrogen production potential,” said Robert Hornung, President and CEO at CanREA. “We welcome the steps that these governments, and the government of Newfoundland and Labrador, are taking to explore green hydrogen production from Newfoundland and Labrador’s abundant wind energy resources.”

While hydrogen can be produced from several different feedstocks, Germany has expressed a clear desire for green hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources. CanREA believes international customers will express a growing preference for green hydrogen going forward, given international commitments to reduce carbon intensity in line with net-zero targets.

CanREA’s 2050 Vision has highlighted the important role green hydrogen must play in helping Canada, and the world, move toward net-zero GHG emissions in areas where electrification is more challenging (for example, industrial processes and freight transportation). It also made it clear that getting to net-zero will require the deployment of new wind and solar energy resources in Canada at an unprecedented scale and speed.

“Building a net-zero world requires collaboration among all stakeholders and levels of government – including our international partners. This announcement between Germany and Canada is another example of how we can collectively work to meet our clean energy needs through international partnerships,” said Hornung.

“CanREA will continue to work with federal and provincial governments to advocate for increased and accelerated wind and solar energy deployment on the national and international stage.”

Background

• The alliance will see Canada and Germany collaborate to facilitate the production of green hydrogen in Canada, with initial exports to Germany expected to begin in 2025 
• As part of the alliance, the Government of Canada is tasked with strengthening collaboration with provinces, territories and the private sector.   
• The alliance will establish a Germany-Canada international trade corridor 
• The alliance commits Canada and Germany to advancing research and development to support hydrogen production, infrastructure, and supply chains.  
• The alliance commits both countries to enabling investment in hydrogen projects via policy  

Quotes

“The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is pleased to see the Canadian and German governments’ desire to capitalize on Canada’s significant green hydrogen production potential.” 

“We welcome the steps that these governments, and the government of Newfoundland and Labrador, are taking to explore green hydrogen production from Newfoundland and Labrador’s abundant wind energy resources.”   

“Building a net-zero world requires collaboration among all stakeholders and levels of government – including our international partners. This announcement between Germany and Canada is another example of how we can collectively work to meet our clean energy needs through international partnerships.” 

“CanREA will continue to work with federal and provincial governments to advocate for increased and accelerated wind and solar energy deployment on the national and international stage.” 

– Robert Hornung, President and CEO at CanREA  

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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  

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca  

Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) RFQ results recognize the role that renewable energy and energy-storage providers can play in supplying the provincial electricity grid

Toronto, August 23, 2022 – Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) provided a status update today on its ongoing efforts to maintain Ontario’s clean electricity advantage.

Following many years of robust electricity supply and stable demand, Ontario will soon need a significant volume of new generation capacity to maintain a safe and reliable electricity system. The IESO aims to secure more than 5,000 MW of capacity in the near term by leveraging existing gas facilities and building new forms of electricity generation and energy storage. Renewables and energy-storage technologies will also play a key role in meeting Ontario’s urgent energy supply needs.

Ontario’s electricity supply is approximately 94% non-emitting, thanks to the contributions of hydro, nuclear, wind and solar power.

“CanREA supports the IESO’s initiatives to qualify suppliers that will contribute to a clean, affordable and reliable grid. This effort will be essential to keep Ontario businesses globally competitive while attracting new investments in key sectors of the economy,” said Brandy Giannetta, Vice-President of Policy, Regulatory & Government Affairs at CanREA.

“Tapping into Ontario’s clean energy potential will also enable the province to drive its greenhouse-gas emissions-reduction goals forward.”

After issuing a request for qualifications from potential developers for long-term supply projects, the IESO has qualified 55 applicants. Many of these applicants are CanREA members, who collectively demonstrate a broad international interest in investing in Ontario’s clean energy sector. The qualification process reinforces the value of competitive procurements to meet the province’s reliability needs in a cost-effective manner. Qualified applicants include a significant number of potential energy-storage projects from CanREA members, a resource that will be critical to long-term decarbonization goals.

A separate competitive procurement for existing generators has also concluded, and the IESO has offered new five-year commitments that secure these resources at a lower cost than their previous contracts, reducing the impact on ratepayers.

CanREA welcomes the IESO’s forthcoming initiatives, and our members stand ready to help Ontario meet its reliability needs at the lowest possible cost.

“CanREA remains optimistic that non-emitting resources will also continue to contribute to the reliable and affordable supply that Ontario needs to power a decarbonized economy,” said Giannetta.

Background

• Ontario’s electricity demand is projected to increase by approximately 15% over the next decade, reaching 168 million MWh by 2032.
• The IESO aims to secure more than 5,000 MW of capacity in the near term.
• Ontario’s electricity supply is approximately 94% non-emitting, thanks to the contributions of hydro, nuclear, wind and solar power.

Quotes

“CanREA supports the IESO’s initiatives to qualify suppliers that will contribute to a clean, affordable and reliable grid. This effort will be essential to keep Ontario businesses globally competitive while attracting new investments in key sectors of the economy.”

“Tapping into Ontario’s clean energy potential will also enable the province to drive its greenhouse-gas emissions-reduction goals forward.”

“CanREA remains optimistic that non-emitting resources will also continue to contribute to the reliable and affordable supply that Ontario needs to power a decarbonized economy.”

Brandy Giannetta, Vice-President of Policy, Regulatory & Government Affairs at CanREA

-30- 

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  

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
Communications@renewablesassociation.ca  

CanREA applauds the Government of Canada for lifting American tariffs on Canadian solar products   

Ottawa, July 7, 2022—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds the Government of Canada’s work to successfully lift United States tariffs on Canadian solar products, as announced in a statement from Global Affairs Canada today.

“The removal of these tariffs is wonderful news for Canada’s solar energy sector, and a major step forward for North American collaboration amid the ongoing clean energy transition,” said Robert Hornung, President and CEO of CanREA.  

“Empowering the renewable energy industry is integral to the fight against climate change,” Hornung said.  

Since the safeguard tariffs were introduced in early 2018 by former U.S. President Donald Trump, exports of solar products from Canada to the United States declined by as much as 82%. 

On Thursday, July 7, International Trade Minister Mary Ng announced that Canada had reached an agreement with the U.S. to remove the tariffs, which were found to be in violation of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) at a CUSMA dispute panel earlier this year.  

This agreement will bolster Canada’s renewable energy manufacturing sector, encouraging further investment and  strengthening Canada’s solar manufacturing capacity. 

“Through its years-long fight to successfully remove these tariffs, the federal government has shown it is willing to stand up for Canada’s solar sector and its workers,” said Nicholas Gall, Ontario Director at CanREA. 

“CanREA firmly believes that with the right trade policies in place, Canadian manufacturers can make an even greater contribution to serving the global supply chains that will power the clean energy transition,” Gall said. 

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.” 

Background 

• In 2018, the U.S. imposed a 30% tariff on solar cells, modules and panels from all countries, including Canada.   
• Over the last four years, the federal government has fought for Canada to be excluded from the tariffs, seeking to resolve the dispute under CUSMA and the former NAFTA.  
• Canada initiated the CUSMA dispute settlement process through a request for consultations on Dec. 22, 2020. A request for a panel was made on June 18, 2021. An in-person hearing was held before the panel in Washington, D.C., on November 10, 2021. 
• In February 2022, Canada won the solar safeguard dispute. A CUSMA panel found the U.S. violated the international trade agreement by failing to exclude imports from Canada from its solar safeguard measure and impermissibly increasing tariffs on imports of solar products from Canada. 

Quotes  

“The removal of these tariffs is wonderful news for Canada’s solar energy sector, and a major step forward for North American collaboration amid the ongoing clean energy transition. Empowering the renewable energy industry is integral to the fight against climate change.”  
—Robert Hornung, President and CEO, CanREA 

“Through its years-long fight to successfully remove these tariffs, the federal government has shown it is willing to stand up for Canada’s solar sector and its workers. CanREA firmly believes that with the right trade policies in place, Canadian manufacturers can make an even greater contribution to serving the global supply chains that will power the clean energy transition.” 
— Nicholas Gall, Ontario Director, CanREA  

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  

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association commends the Alberta Electricity System Operator for its ‘Net-Zero Emissions Pathways’ report, underscoring the importance of expanding the province’s wind, solar and energy-storage capacity.  

Calgary, June 27, 2022—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) commends the Alberta Electricity System Operator (AESO) for today’s release of the “AESO Net-Zero Emissions Pathways Report.”

“We look forward to working with partners within the Government of Alberta, the AESO and the Federal government to ensure an effective, affordable and reliable path to net-zero in Alberta,” said Evan Wilson, CanREA’s Western Canada Director.  

This AESO report examines three possible scenarios for the evolution of the Alberta electricity grid between today and 2035, the date by which the Federal government has committed Canada to a net-zero electricity grid.  

Two of the AESO’s three scenarios, the “First-Mover Advantage” and the “Renewables and Storage Rush,” illustrate the critical role that wind energy, solar energy and energy storage will play in Alberta’s path to a net-zero grid. In these scenarios, the AESO projects that wind and solar will provide between 35 and 45% of Alberta’s total generation by 2035, and between 32 and 47% by 2041.  

“The energy-only market has sparked such growth in the renewables sector that this province accounted for 60% of all new Canadian wind and solar capacity installed in 2021,” said Wilson.  “Alberta is already leading the country in renewables investments, and the AESO report highlights just how much opportunity exists in the province. The Alberta grid can support significant emissions reductions, with solar, wind and energy storage leading the path to net-zero by 2035.”  

In addition to outlining the opportunities arising from a net-zero electricity grid, the report also provides some insight into the challenges Alberta will face as we approach 2035—many of which can be addressed, and successfully mitigated, via policy and regulatory changes. CanREA’s 2050 Vision outlines the key changes required.

• Task 1: Decarbonize Canada’s electricity production by 2035.
• Task 2: Modernize Canada’s electricity markets and regulatory structure to enable the lowest cost pathway to grid decarbonization and expansion.
• Task 3: Build new wind, solar and energy storage in Canada, ensuring cost-effective outcomes from procurement process for new decarbonized electricity generation
• Task 4: Rethink Canada’s electricity infrastructure investments and seek to minimize the cost of new transmission and distribution infrastructure needed to expand electricity production.
• Task 5. Use decarbonized electricity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Canada’s transportation, buildings and industry sectors.

“To get to a decarbonized grid by 2035, Canada must double its electricity capacity. All avenues will require investment; wind and solar energy offer the lowest-cost forms of new electricity generation available today,” said Brandy Giannetta, CanREA’s Vice-President of Policy, Regulatory and Government Affairs.   

With Alberta’s positive track record, Canada needs this province to lead the charge toward decarbonization. Alberta entrepreneurs never shy away from a challenge. With expertise from renewable energy leaders, it is possible to decarbonize provincial electricity supply by 2035. And, as CanREA stressed in its 2050 Vision: We have no time to waste; we must start now. 

Background

• Alberta is home to Canada’s fastest-growing wind and solar energy sectors, with the province accounting for 60% of all new installed capacity across the country in 2021.  
• In 2021 alone, 250 MW of solar energy capacity and 358 MW of wind energy capacity were added to Alberta’s electricity grid.  
• The deregulated market in Alberta has fueled extraordinary renewable energy growth. Between 2019 and 2021, the market-based approach to renewables led to over 1,600 MW of contracted capacity and more than $3 billion in overall investments.  
• Canada’s largest solar project is the 465 MW Travers Solar project, situated in Vulcan County, Alberta.  
• The nation’s largest battery storage facility is the 20 MW Buffalo Creek Storage project, located near the town of Vermilion in Central Alberta. 

Quotes

“We look forward to working with partners within the Government of Alberta, the AESO and the Federal government to ensure an effective, affordable and reliable path to net-zero in Alberta.”  

“The energy-only market has sparked such growth in the renewables sector that this province accounted for 60% of all new Canadian wind and solar capacity installed in 2021.”  

“Alberta is already leading the country, and the AESO report highlights just how much opportunity exists in the province.”  

“The Alberta grid can support significant emissions reductions, with solar, wind and energy storage leading the path to net-zero by 2035.” 

 —Evan Wilson, Western Canada Director, CanREA 

“To get to a decarbonized grid by 2035, Canada must double its electricity capacity. All avenues will require investment; wind and solar energy offer the lowest-cost forms of new electricity generation available today.”   

—Brandy Giannetta, Vice-President of Policy, Government and Regulatory Affairs, CanREA 

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  

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

Newly launched federal grant program will make rooftop solar panels, battery storage and a wide range of other low-carbon technologies more accessible, which is great news for Canada’s renewable energy industry and Canadian homeowners.

Ottawa, June 17, 2022—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds the Government of Canada for investing in the first phase of the new Canada Greener Homes Loan program, announced today.  

The $4.4-billion program, part of the Canada Greener Homes Initiatives, will provide interest-free loans of up to $40,000 per household, making energy-efficient upgrades—such as solar panels and energy storage technologies—more affordable for Canadian homeowners. 

The program will also help make national decarbonization goals more attainable, said Robert Hornung, CanREA’s President and CEO, at the June 17 announcement in Ottawa.  

“Rooftop solar panels and residential battery storage are two game-changing technologies that will play an important role in helping Canada to achieve net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions by 2050,” Hornung said.  

These technologies will also help Canadian families reduce their energy bills and make their homes more resilient to the extreme-weather events that are become increasingly common as a result of climate change. 

Significant upfront costs can be a barrier for Canadian families to access these proven technological solutions against the climate crisis. That’s why the Government of Canada’s Greener Homes Loan initiative is so important.   

“This program makes rooftop solar panels, battery storage, and a wide range of other low-carbon technologies more accessible for Canadian families. This will help to create jobs, drive investment, reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and make our communities more resilient, which is great news for the renewable energy industry and Canadian homeowners,” said Hornung. 

As of Friday, the first phase will be open to eligible homeowners who are applying or have an open application (pre-retrofit stage) to the Canada Greener Homes Grant. The second phase, starting in September 2022, will include homeowners with closed applications (those who have requested their post-retrofit evaluation or grant) but have other eligible retrofits they are hoping to pursue. 

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Background

• CanREA has been vocal in its support for the Canada Greener Homes Grant program since its launch in May 2021, as it greatly increases the accessibility of energy-efficiency retrofits and the deployment of solar energy and energy storage for Canadian homeowners.
• Since its launch in May 2021, the Canada Greener Homes Grant has helped homeowners across the country retrofit their homes while creating good jobs for Canadians.
• As of June 8, over 171,000 applications have been received through the national portal and $38 million in grants have been sent to over 10,000 Canadians.

Quotes

“Rooftop solar panels and residential battery storage are two game-changing technologies that will play an important role in helping Canada to achieve net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions by 2050.”

“This program makes rooftop solar panels, battery storage, and a wide range of other low-carbon technologies more accessible for Canadian families. This will help to create jobs, drive investment, reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and make our communities more resilient, which is great news for the renewable-energy industry and Canadian homeowners.”

—Robert Hornung, CanREA’s President and CEO

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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  

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
647-268-3382 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca