Category: News Release

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. 

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association congratulates Quebec’s new cabinet ministers

Posted on by Joshua Bleser

CanREA is ready to support Quebec’s new ministers with the energy transition, especially through the deployment of upcoming solar and wind projects that will make Quebec a greener, more prosperous place.

Montréal, September 10, 2025—TheCanadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) congratulates Quebec’s new ministers on their appointment to cabinet and is eager to work with them to grow the wind, solar and energy storage industries across the province. In particular, CanREA would like to congratulate Christine Fréchette, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, who has retained her portfolios.

The energy transition, including the deployment of solar and wind energy projects, is already well underway thanks to Hydro-Québec’s ambitious Action Plan 2035. However, input from several departments will be needed to ensure that the full potential of this energy can be harnessed.

“In recent years, CanREA has been central to promoting the potential of wind and solar energy and energy storage,” says Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO of CanREA. “We will work closely with the new ministers to help bring wind and solar projects online and promote energy storage solutions where they make sense. Our ultimate goal is to decarbonize the Quebec economy and help it grow.”

Current challenges facing the deployment of renewable energy projects will be at the forefront of CanREA’s discussions with the new cabinet in the coming months. This is why it will be essential to continue having conversations on key issues, such as the transportation of wind turbine components within the province and the need to conduct thorough reviews that can help projects get departmental approval within a reasonable time frame. These efforts will help lay the groundwork to achieve the goals set out in Hydro-Québec’s Action Plan 2035, such as the production of more than 10,000 MW of wind energy and 3,000 MW of solar energy.

“Implementing measures to carry out the energy transition will be no mean feat, but CanREA is committed to working with the Quebec government to achieve the ambitious goal of producing more than 13 GW of solar and wind energy,” says Jean Habel, CanREA’s Senior Director of Policy for Quebec and Atlantic Canada.

Quotes

“In recent years, CanREA has been central to promoting the potential of wind and solar energy and energy storage. We will work closely with the new ministers to help bring wind and solar projects online and promote energy storage solutions, when optimal. Our ultimate goal is to decarbonize the Quebec economy and help it grow.”

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

“Implementing measures to carry out the energy transition will be no mean feat, but CanREA is committed to working with the Quebec government to achieve the ambitious goal of producing more than 13 GW of solar and wind energy.”

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

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:  

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association  
communications@renewablesassociation.ca  

About CanREA  

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

CanREA calls for further changes to new Alberta market design

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Insulate renewable projects from new Ancillary Services charges

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

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

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

Quotes

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

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

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

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

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA

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

NEWS RELEASE: Electricity Transformation Canada 2025 announces conference program

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quotes

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

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

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

— Stephen Miner, President and CEO, RE+ Events

For more information or for interview opportunities, please contact: 

About ETC

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

About CanREA

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

About RE+ Events

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

About Italian German Exhibition Group

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

BC Hydro launches call for power

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quotes 

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

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

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

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

Photos

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

Canadian Renewable Energy Association 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA 

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

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

Posted on by Melissa McDougall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quotes

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

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

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

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

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

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

Canadian Renewable Energy Association 

Communications 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA 

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