Category: News Release

STATEMENT: CanREA welcomes BC Hydro’s 2025 Integrated Resources Plan but seeks greater clarity on market outlook

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

Proposed plan recommits to 2025 Call for Power but may not do enough to create the long-term market certainty that industry and ratepayers need

Vancouver, November 7, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) applauds BC Hydro for filing its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and moving toward a more agile approach to electricity planning with more regular updates to the IRP.

The plan was submitted October 31 to the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) for review and acceptance, a process that is expected to take several months. The new IRP includes provisions to reinforce and expand B.C.’s transmissions system, upgrade generating facilities, pursue higher levels of demand-side measures, extend residential battery and solar panel rebates, and—crucially—acquire additional clean, renewable and affordable power to meet the province’s future needs.

“While we are encouraged to see BC Hydro confirming the need for an additional 5,000 GWh/year expected to come online by 2034, as reflected in the current 2025 Call for Power, the plan forecasts significantly lower growth in electricity demand and supply than anticipated,” explained Patricia Lightburn, CanREA’s Director of Policy for British Columbia. “There has been a lot of excitement over the past several years about the projected rise in electricity demand in B.C. from industry and electrification, and we are surprised not to see more of this growth reflected in the plan.”

In 2024, BC Hydro completed its first call for power in 15 years, which resulted in 10 Electricity Purchase Agreements (EPAs) for a total of nearly 5,000 GWh/year of renewable energy, slated to flow to the grid by 2031, from projects with First Nations equity ownership between 49% and 51%. EPAs for the additional 5,000 GWh under the 2025 Call for Power are expected to be awarded in early 2026. The government has committed to holding regular calls for power every two years.  

However, the “flexible” approach introduced in BC Hydro’s new IRP, designed to allow the utility to “monitor changing conditions to ensure [it] can continue to support economic growth and meet the evolving needs of [its] customers” appears to walk back that commitment, promising only “additional calls for power as needed.”

Integrated resource plans are a critical tool for utilities, governments and industry alike, setting the stage for policies, planning and investments. CanREA is concerned that without regular and predictable calls for power, it will be more difficult for renewable energy companies and First Nations communities to plan ahead, prepare competitive bids and deliver the lowest-cost electricity possible to British Columbians.

“B.C. is taking meaningful steps toward its clean energy future, and BC Hydro’s work on the IRP provides an important foundation,” said CanREA Vice President of Policy Imran Noorani. “The next step is to align policy and procurement signals to turn that planning into stability for investment. CanREA looks forward to helping bring government, utilities and industry together to bridge the gaps and ensure B.C. fully captures the opportunity ahead.”

CanREA has been actively involved in informing the calls for power processes to ensure they are robust and competitive, and the Association will be engaging with BC Hydro to better understand the forecasts for electricity supply and demand and provide guidance to CanREA’s members on the market outlook for B.C.

Quotes

“While we are encouraged to see BC Hydro confirming the need for an additional 5,000 GWh/year expected to come online by 2034, as reflected in the current 2025 Call for Power, the plan forecasts significantly lower growth in electricity demand and supply than anticipated. There has been a lot of excitement over the past several years about the projected rise in electricity demand in B.C. from industry and electrification, and we are surprised not to see more of this growth reflected in the plan.”

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

“B.C. is taking meaningful steps toward its clean energy future, and BC Hydro’s work on the IRP provides an important foundation. The next step is to align policy and procurement signals to turn that planning into stability for investment. CanREA looks forward to helping bring government, utilities and industry together to bridge the gaps and ensure B.C. fully captures the opportunity ahead.”

— Imran Noorani, Vice President of Policy, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: 

Joshua Bleser, Manager 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 Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.   

NEWS RELEASE: Federal Budget 2025 sets a clear path to Canada’s clean energy competitiveness

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

Climate Competitiveness Strategy and the long-awaited Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credits expected to spur rapid growth in renewable energy 

Ottawa, November 4, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is encouraged by the policy direction set by the federal government in its budget tabled in the House of Commons earlier today by the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue. A new climate strategy laid out in Budget 2025: Canada Strong sends businesses a clear signal that Canada is a safe and stable place to invest in wind, solar and energy storage projects.   

CanREA welcomes the clearly articulated Climate Competitiveness Strategy, which will serve as a north star for Canada’s policy choices in a rapidly shifting economic landscape. “We see the Climate Competitiveness Strategy that was laid out in today’s budget as a commitment to keeping Canada a top-tier place to invest in renewable energy and energy storage,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO of CanREA. “By doing so, the federal government is ensuring that companies and Canadians will have access to the low-cost and low-carbon power they need to grow the economy and prosper.” 

Budget 2025 proposes to introduce legislation to finalize the Clean Economy Investment Tax Credits (ITCs). CanREA is particularly pleased to see that the Clean Electricity ITC will finally be available to renewable energy investors—including municipal and Indigenous corporations—if Parliament passes the forthcoming Budget Implementation Act.  

“The Clean Electricity ITC will help to build critical infrastructure like interprovincial transmission and will begin to level the playing field for municipalities and Indigenous companies,” said Fernando Melo, CanREA’s Senior Director of Public Affairs and Federal Policy. “However, by failing to provide Indigenous companies and communities with an ITC rate that is equivalent to their non-Indigenous competitors and collaborators, the federal government has not meaningfully addressed a significant barrier to Indigenous equity ownership of renewable energy and energy storage projects.” 

On the emissions reduction front, the Strategy further commits to strengthening Canada’s national greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting and pricing systems, providing CanREA’s membership with the policy certainty they need to make long-term investments in Canada’s electricity systems. “A strong carbon accounting and pricing system is the foundation on which Canada’s economic competitiveness is built,” said Melo.  

CanREA and its members look forward to the tabling of the implementing legislation and to working with all parliamentarians to pass the elements critical to keeping Canada a stable place for companies to invest in nation-building wind, solar and energy storage projects.  

Quotes 

“We see the Climate Competitiveness Strategy that was laid out in today’s budget as a commitment to keeping Canada a top-tier place to invest in renewable energy and energy storage. By doing so, the federal government is ensuring that companies and Canadians will have access to the low-cost and low-carbon power they need to grow the economy and prosper.”   

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

“The Clean Electricity ITC will help to build critical infrastructure like interprovincial transmission and will begin to level the playing field for municipalities and Indigenous companies. However, by failing to provide Indigenous companies and communities with an ITC rate that is equivalent to their non-Indigenous competitors and collaborators, the federal government has not meaningfully addressed a significant barrier to Indigenous equity ownership of renewable energy and energy storage projects.” 

“A strong carbon accounting and pricing system is the foundation on which Canada’s economic competitiveness is built.”  

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

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:  

Joshua Bleser, Manager 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 Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.   

STATEMENT – Affordable, clean electricity at the heart of PEI’s new 10-year energy strategy

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

Province commits to boosting on-island wind and solar and achieving net-zero emissions by 2040

Ottawa, October 30, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) celebrates Prince Edward Island’s new 10-year energy strategy announced this week. The strategy reaffirms the province’s commitment to expanding clean energy and achieving net-zero emissions by 2040. It also calls for strengthened consumer protections, upgrades to infrastructure and regional collaboration, while highlighting energy equity and affordability. 

The strategy recognizes that the rise in demand for electricity on PEI outstrips generation capacity—including imports from neighbouring provinces—and projects a 27% deficit by 2033. For this reason, the strategy states, it’s important to produce more clean energy in PEI, both to make the power supply more secure and to help meet environmental targets.

“PEI’s 10-year energy strategy unveiled this week makes it clear that electricity demand in the province will increase significantly in the next decade, mirroring the trend across Canada,” said Jean Habel, CanREA’s Senior Director of Policy for Quebec and Atlantic Canada. “Our members are ready to step up and build new wind, solar and energy storage projects to supply the Island’s homes and businesses with the clean, low-cost, reliable and flexible electricity they need to meet the government’s ambitious net-zero climate goals by 2040.”

The new strategy was informed by a public consultation process and the results of energy system modelling, as well as energy sector reports and studies and a comprehensive expert review. In addition to the specific commitment to boosting PEI’s renewable energy generation capacity, the document outlines four other strategic pillars that will guide the province’s energy vision through to 2035. The actions that flow from these pillars will seek to create a stable regulatory framework and drive energy efficiency, decarbonization and innovation, helping the government achieve its key objectives of reliability, affordability and equity, sustainability and economic development.

CanREA is especially pleased that the strategy reflects several of the recommendations the Association made during the consultation process and, as the strategy is rolled out, hopes to see increased support for residential and community solar programs, more efficient use of existing infrastructure, and clear timelines and criteria for procurements of wind, solar and storage, in order to provide best value to ratepayers by maximizing competition.

“The PEI Energy Strategy includes actions for integrating more on-island clean energy generation and storage, beneficial electrification strategies—including for the transportation sector—and transmission improvements,” said Eddie Oldfield, CanREA’s Manager of Policy for Atlantic Canada. “This will ensure a more supportive environment for the integration of wind, solar and storage solutions on Prince Edward Island, and go a long way toward helping the province meet its climate and energy goals.”

CanREA will continue to closely follow Prince Edward Island’s new energy strategy and looks forward to seeing the next steps, including the detailed implementation plan.

Quotes

“PEI’s 10-year energy strategy unveiled this week makes it clear that electricity demand in the province will increase significantly in the next decade, mirroring the trend across Canada. Our members are ready to step up and build new wind, solar and energy storage projects to supply the Island’s homes and businesses with the clean, low-cost, reliable and flexible electricity they need to meet the government’s ambitious net-zero climate goals by 2040.”

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

“The PEI Energy Strategy includes actions for integrating more on-island clean energy generation and storage, beneficial electrification strategies—including for the transportation sector—and transmission improvements. This will ensure a more supportive environment for the integration of wind, solar and storage solutions on Prince Edward Island, and go a long way toward helping the province meet its climate and energy goals.”

— Eddie Oldfield, Manager of Policy for Atlantic Region, 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 – Canada powers ahead: Clean energy transition takes centre stage at Electricity Transformation Canada 2025 

Posted on by Joshua Bleser

Toronto, October 15, 2025—Optimism was in the air as Electricity Transformation Canada (ETC) 2025, the country’s premier clean energy conference and exhibition, wrapped up at the Enercare Centre in Toronto last week. This year’s edition was the biggest ETC to date, bringing together 2,900 clean energy professionals from across Canada and around the world, as well as more than 120 top-tier speakers and 180 exhibitors showcasing the latest renewable energy technologies. Major themes emerged regarding the transition from a vision for Canada’s renewable energy industry to large-scale reality, driven by groundbreaking technologies, innovative policy ideas and a shared commitment to progress. 

“Renewable energy is Canada’s strategic advantage, delivering affordable, reliable electricity to power our industries, communities and homes,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO of CanREA. “Canada boasts a proud legacy of clean generation, and now we’re accelerating investments in wind, solar and energy storage nationwide. More than 17 GW of new capacity is already in motion, representing over $31 billion in investment, and that momentum is only growing.” 

From the moment doors opened, the atmosphere reflected an industry in motion. Solar, wind, energy storage, hydrogen and microgrid innovations filled the expo hall, with exhibitors demonstrating how new digital tools, AI-powered optimization, long-duration battery systems, hybrid renewable hydrogen solutions, and EV infrastructure are making clean power more efficient, resilient and accessible. 

Delegates explored four in-depth conference streams—Policy & Market Insights; Getting Projects Built; Unlocking Energy Storage; and Utilities & Grid Modernization—alongside live education sessions in three show floor theatres. Topics ranged from grid modernization and the integration of distributed energy resources to the growing role of Indigenous-led clean energy projects. Unmatched networking opportunities included a reception at the Hockey Hall of Fame and the event’s largest-ever Indigenous Business Pavilion. 

One of the highlights of ETC 2025 was the inaugural CanREA Awards, celebrating leadership and innovation across Canada’s clean energy sector. The 2025 award winners were: 

  • Hagersville Battery Energy Storage Park, by Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation and Boralex – Innovative Canadian Clean Power Project of the Year 
  • Glooscap Energy – Indigenous Clean Energy Company of the Year 
  • Solar is Not an Option, by Jayman BUILT – Canadian On-Site (BTM) Project of the Year 

Additional highlights included a keynote speech by Ontario Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce and the Women in Renewable Energy awards ceremony.  

Delegates also received exclusive insights from the newly released Canada’s Renewable Energy Market Outlook 2025. Among its key findings: over the next decade, Canada will deploy 30–51 GW of new wind power, 17–26 GW of new solar power and 12–16 GW of new energy storage. Together, these additions will boost renewables from 10% of supply today to as much as 33% of Canada’s electricity by 2050. 

A standout session, “CanREA Team: Cross-Canada Check-Up on Policy, Markets and Procurements,” featured CanREA’s regional policy directors sharing updates on procurement opportunities and policy developments across the country. 

“ETC has evolved into the premier destination for Canada’s renewable energy professionals,” said Stephen Miner, President and CEO of RE+ Events. “This year’s event proved that innovation, education and collaboration are the cornerstones of our industry’s growth on a major scale.” 

As Canada continues to advance its clean energy ambitions, you can always find them at Electricity Transformation Canada. Join us next year, October 19–21, 2026, at the Enercare Centre in Toronto, Ontario. 

ETC is developed by CanREA, RE+ Events and the Italian Exhibition Group. For more information on Electricity Transformation Canada, please visit electricity-transformation.ca.  

Quotes 

“Renewable energy is Canada’s strategic advantage, delivering affordable, reliable electricity to power our industries, communities and homes. Canada boasts a proud legacy of clean generation, and now we’re accelerating investments in wind, solar and energy storage nationwide. More than 17 GW of new capacity is already in motion, representing over $31 billion in investment, and that momentum is only growing.”  

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

“ETC has evolved into the premier destination for Canada’s renewable energy professionals. This year’s event proved that innovation, education, and collaboration are the cornerstones of our industry’s growth on a major scale.” 

—Stephen Miner, President and CEO, RE+ Events 

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:  

Traci Rowntree, RE+ Events: trowntree@re-plus.com  

Joshua Bleser, Canadian Renewable Energy Association: communications@renewablesassociation.ca  

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 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. 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 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 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 add value to Electricity Transformation Canada’s operations.   

Meet our new Vice President of Policy!

Posted on by Judy Mitri

Toronto, October 7, 2025 – The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes Imran Noorani as its new Vice President of Policy. In this role, Imran will join CanREA’s Executive Team and lead policy development and government relations efforts at a transformative time for Canada’s electricity sector.

Imran co-founded Toronto-based Peak Power, where he scaled operations across North America and mobilized $1.4 billion in funding and project financing to advance renewable energy projects with storage integration. His career also includes senior roles at the Ozz Group of Companies and in the public sector, providing a unique perspective across utilities, government, and project developers. He holds an MBA and an LLM in Energy & Infrastructure.

“I’m thrilled to join CanREA at this pivotal moment, when Canada must be bold in building its clean energy future,” said Noorani. “This role is deeply meaningful to me, as I believe our sector already has the foundation to transform Canada’s energy system. By advancing policies and financing frameworks together, we can unlock investment at scale, strengthen reliability, and make wind, solar, and storage the cornerstone of a resilient, net-zero future.”

“Imran brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial achievement and policy expertise that CanREA needs right now,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “His track record of mobilizing capital at scale and navigating complex regulatory environments will be invaluable as we work to accelerate deployment of renewables and storage. We’re thrilled to have him steering our policy agenda at such a consequential moment.”

Outside of work, Imran is an avid scuba diver and cyclist based in Toronto.

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

NEWS RELEASE – CanREA announces winners of the first-ever CanREA Awards

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

Honouring innovation, leadership and excellence in Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage industries

Toronto, October 7, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) proudly announced the winners of the first-ever CanREA Awards tonight at the opening of Electricity Transformation Canada 2025, Canada’s premier clean energy conference and exhibition. This new annual awards program celebrates exceptional projects and organizations that are demonstrating innovation, leadership and a deep commitment to advancing Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage industries.

“Today, we celebrate the innovators, trailblazers, and changemakers who are driving Canada’s clean energy transformation,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “The winners of the inaugural CanREA Awards exemplify the leadership, ingenuity and commitment needed to build our electricity future. From groundbreaking projects to Indigenous-led excellence and behind-the-meter innovation, these honourees are setting the standard for what’s possible in wind, solar and energy storage across Canada.”

2025 CanREA Award winners

Innovative Canadian Clean Power Project of the Year
Hagersville Battery Energy Storage Park – by Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation & Boralex

Canada’s largest battery storage project to date, the Hagersville Battery Energy Storage Park will add 300 MW of capacity to Ontario’s grid, setting a new benchmark for large-scale storage and demonstrating the power of equitable Indigenous partnership.

“We are deeply grateful to CanREA for this recognition, which underscores the power of meaningful collaboration in driving Canada’s clean energy future,” said Matt Jamieson, President and CEO of Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation (SNGRDC). “SNGRDC and Boralex recognized the potential of battery energy storage early on and have harnessed it to deliver clean, reliable and lasting benefits to Ontario’s energy grid. The Hagersville Battery Project offers only a glimpse of what is possible. This award affirms SNGRDC and Boralex as leaders in this field and will help catalyze new opportunities to expand this technology, keeping us at the forefront of innovation in 2026 and beyond.”

Boralex President and CEO Patrick Decostre agreed: “We’re honoured that the Hagersville Battery Energy Storage Park has been recognized by CanREA with the Innovative Canadian Clean Power Project of the Year award. This award reflects the strength of our long-standing partnership with the Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation and our shared commitment to advancing low-carbon, reliable and inclusive energy solutions. Together, we’re demonstrating how collaboration and innovation can accelerate Canada’s energy objectives while delivering lasting benefits to both local communities and the grid.”

The Boralex and Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation teams, with CanREA President and CEO Vittoria Bellissimo (third from right). 

Indigenous Clean Energy Company of the Year
Glooscap Energy

A trailblazing Mi’kmaq-owned company from Nova Scotia, Glooscap Energy is driving clean energy development through wind, solar and energy storage, while creating lasting economic and social benefits for Indigenous and host communities alike.

“This award shows what we can do when we work together,” said Glooscap First Nation Chief Sidney Peters. “Glooscap First Nation is proud to lead clean energy projects in our community and to contribute to regional efforts with other Mi’kmaq Nations through the Wskijinu’k Mtmo’taqnuow Agency. Together, we honour the land and water and build opportunities that will benefit generations to come. This is the true strength of Indigenous leadership and partnership.”

Left to right: Chief Sidney Peters, Glooscap First Nation; Montanna Labradore, Energy Coordinator at Glooscap Ventures; and Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA). 

Canadian On-Site (BTM) Project of the Year
Solar is Not an Option – by Jayman BUILT

This pioneering behind-the-meter initiative showcases how large-scale residential homebuilding can integrate solar generation and energy storage to dramatically reduce emissions and costs.

“We are honoured to be recognized by CanREA in their inaugural awards program celebrating innovation in Canada’s solar industry,” said Jay Westman, Chairman & CEO of Jayman BUILT. “At Jayman BUILT, sustainability isn’t just a feature—it’s part of our DNA. From bringing the Built Green program to Canada in 2003 to making solar rough-ins standard in 2016, and now including 10 solar panels, tankless hot water heaters, triple-pane windows and more, on every single-family home we build, we’re committed to reducing energy costs for homeowners while protecting the planet. We have even introduced our Path to Net Zero homes, with options for every budget that bring your home to net-zero certification. We are committed to creating smarter, more energy-efficient homes. It is embedded in everything we do—it’s the Jayman Code.”

Left to right: Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA); Conrad Holmberg, General Manager of Operations for Jayman BUILT; and David Vonesch, President and CEO of SkyFire Energy. 

Recognizing the industry’s best

The CanREA Awards were established to recognize and amplify the outstanding achievements of CanREA members and their project partners. Nominees for this first edition had the opportunity to be featured in CanREA promotional content, helping to showcase the talent and ingenuity driving Canada’s renewable energy future.

CanREA encourages its members to watch for the call for nominees for the 2026 CanREA Awards, which will open in summer 2026.

If you’re not already a CanREA member, join today to be part of Canada’s growing community of clean energy leaders.

Quotes

“Today, we celebrate the innovators, trailblazers, and changemakers who are driving Canada’s clean energy transformation,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “The winners of the inaugural CanREA Awards exemplify the leadership, ingenuity, and commitment needed to build our electricity future. From groundbreaking projects to Indigenous-led excellence and behind-the-meter innovation, these honourees are setting the standard for what’s possible in wind, solar and energy storage across Canada.”

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

“We are deeply grateful to CanREA for this recognition, which underscores the power of meaningful collaboration in driving Canada’s clean energy future. Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation (SNGRDC) and Boralex recognized the potential of battery energy storage early on and have harnessed it to deliver clean, reliable, and lasting benefits to Ontario’s energy grid. The Hagersville Battery Project offers only a glimpse of what is possible. This award affirms SNGRDC and Boralex as leaders in this field and will help catalyze new opportunities to expand this technology, keeping us at the forefront of innovation in 2026 and beyond.” 

—Matt Jamieson, President and CEO, Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation 

“We’re honoured that the Hagersville Battery Energy Storage Park has been recognized by CanREA with the Innovative Canadian Clean Power Project of the Year award. This award reflects the strength of our longstanding partnership with the Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation and our shared commitment to advancing low-carbon, reliable and inclusive energy solutions. Together, we’re demonstrating how collaboration and innovation can accelerate Canada’s energy objectives while delivering lasting benefits to both local communities and the grid.”

—Patrick Decostre, President and CEO, Boralex

“We are honoured to be recognized by CanREA in their inaugural awards program celebrating innovation in Canada’s solar industry. At Jayman BUILT, sustainability isn’t just a feature—it’s part of our DNA. From bringing the Built Green program to Canada in 2003 to making solar rough-ins standard in 2016, and now including 10 solar panels, tankless hot water heaters, triple-pane windows and more, on every single-family home we build, we’re committed to reducing energy costs for homeowners while protecting the planet. We have even introduced our Path to Net Zero homes, with options for every budget that bring your home to net-zero certification. We are committed to creating smarter, more energy-efficient homes. It is embedded in everything we do—it’s the Jayman Code.”

—Jay Westman, Chairman & CEO, Jayman BUILT

“This award shows what we can do when we work together. Glooscap First Nation is proud to lead clean energy projects in our community and to contribute to regional efforts with other Mi’kmaq Nations through the Wskijinu’k Mtmo’taqnuow Agency. Together, we honour the land and water and build opportunities that will benefit generations to come. This is the true strength of Indigenous leadership and partnership.”

—Chief Sidney Peters, Glooscap First Nation

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 disappointed by abrupt closure of Canada Greener Homes Loan program 

Posted on by Joshua Bleser

The cancellation of the federal interest-free loan program leaves many clean energy businesses and Canadian homeowners in the lurch, with no long-term solution in sight. 

Ottawa, October 1, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is disappointed by the abrupt cancellation of the Canada Greener Homes Loan (CGHL) program and is advocating for a long-term program to accelerate the transition to renewable energy solutions.  

The interest-free loan program, created in June 2022 as part of the larger Canada Greener Homes Initiative, offered 10-year interest-free loans ranging from $5,000 to $40,000 to help homeowners pay for energy-efficient retrofits, including rooftop solar panels and battery energy storage systems. The federal government announced the application closure in mid-September, giving Canadians only nine business days’ notice before the October 1st final application deadline. 

“Even without the CGHL, solar energy makes economic sense in Canada, but the sudden loss of the program will have a significant negative impact on one of the key industries needed to deliver clean energy at the pace and scale required to achieve Canada’s future goals of affordable, reliable and sustainable energy,” said Phil McKay, CanREA’s Senior Director of Member Programs. “The companies most affected are the ones taking the time to build relationships with customers and educate them on the accessibility of solar and energy storage from coast to coast to coast.” 

With the shuttering of the CGHL, most Canadians no longer have a program that can help them save money on their energy bills and reduce their emissions, despite this government having made these priorities a cornerstone of its mandate. It is important that all Canadians and businesses have a long-term signal to go solar or adopt other energy- and emissions-saving technologies. Businesses have investment tax credits, and low-income Canadians have grant and affordability programs, but the large majority of Canadians now have nothing. This programming vacuum slows the industry’s ability to deliver clean energy solutions and hinders progress toward the government’s own goals. 

CanREA commends the federal government for its leadership and its administration of one of Canada’s most ambitious solar and storage adoption programs to date. This is why it befuddles our team that this program was allowed to run out. During his leadership campaign, Prime Minister Carney pledged to replace the consumer carbon tax with incentives to reward people for greener choices—like installing solar panels on their roofs.  

As the Association’s members on the front lines of deploying behind-the-meter solar and storage solutions now scramble to overhaul business plans and protect workers, CanREA is committed to finding a path forward. It urges the federal government to prioritize long-term loan programs to continue to advance the transition to renewable energy solutions and achieve Canada’s climate goals. 

“For years, we have advocated for long-term, stable policies that can provide steady growth for the industry and avoid the boom-bust cycles of fast-ramping incentive programs,” explained Fernando Melo, CanREA’s Senior Director of Federal Policy and Public Affairs. “CanREA will continue to push for the conditions under which Canadians can confidently invest in solar and storage and do their part to strengthen and decarbonize our national electricity networks.” 

Quotes 

“Even without the CGHL, solar energy makes economic sense in Canada, but the sudden loss of the Canada Greener Homes Loan program will have a significant negative impact on one of the key industries needed to deliver clean energy at the pace and scale required to achieve Canada’s future goals of affordable, reliable and sustainable energy. The companies most affected are the ones taking the time to build relationships with customers and educate them on the accessibility of solar and energy storage from coast to coast to coast.” 

—Phil McKay, Senior Director of Member Programs, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

“For years, we have advocated for long-term, stable policies that can provide steady growth for the industry and avoid the boom-bust cycles of fast-ramping incentive programs. CanREA will continue to push for the conditions under which Canadians can confidently invest in solar and storage and do their part to strengthen and decarbonize our national electricity networks.” 

—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 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.