Category: News Release

Successful new conference in Toronto opens dialogue between the finance and clean power industries.

Toronto, June 19, 2024—Nearly 140 people attended the sold-out, inaugural edition of the Clean Power Finance Canada—CanREA Summit, held at CIBC Square in downtown Toronto today. This full-day conference hosted by the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) brought together industry leaders and investment experts to discuss the financial landscape of Canada’s clean-energy market. 

“We created the Clean Power Finance Canada Summit to open dialogue between the finance and clean power industries, because the clean energy transition represents a massive investment opportunity in Canada,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “We need to invest in renewables and energy storage to reach Canada’s climate targets, as well as to meet the growing demand for electricity, and to stay competitive in a rapidly digitizing economy.”  

The conference convened expert speakers to help investors understand the particularities of renewable energy and energy storage projects, while providing valuable insights on financing for CanREA member companies and the full clean-energy sector.  

In his opening remarks, James Brooks (Managing Director & Co-Head of Energy, Infrastructure & Transition Investment Banking at CIBC Capital Markets) emphasized the importance of financial strategies in advancing Canada’s clean energy future. 

As the keynote speaker, the Hon. Lisa Raitt (Vice-Chair of Global Investment Banking at CIBC and former federal Minister of Transport, of Labour, and of Natural Resources) highlighted the critical role of strategic investments and policy support in accelerating Canada’s clean energy transition. 

Over the course of the day, five panel discussions explored different aspects of the summit’s theme, including:  

• “State of the Industry: Clean Power in Canada” provided a finance-focused overview of the clean-energy investment landscape in Canada.  
• “Revenues & Reporting: Understanding Clean Power Value Streams” delved into the various revenue streams and market pricing available across Canada. 
• “The Game of Risk: Identifying & Mitigating Risk Profiles for Clean-Power Projects” discussed how the industry manages and mitigates the risks faced by clean power projects, including supply-chain management, project siting and permitting, transmission access, political carbon pricing risk, and workforce development. 
• “Indigenous Equity Financing: Exploring Funding Avenues for Indigenous Partnerships,” identified barriers faced by Indigenous communities in securing financing for equity partnerships in clean energy projects, as well as solutions to these challenges. 
• “Financing the Innovators: Emerging Clean-Power Technologies” showcased innovative technologies poised to transform the clean energy landscape, such as green hydrogen, long-duration energy storage and offshore wind.  

With standing room only in these sessions, the popular conference provided critical insights into the financial mechanisms driving Canada’s clean energy future, along with networking opportunities when all attendees could mingle and discuss matters further.  

CanREA wishes to thank all attendees, moderators and speakers for helping to make the Clean Power Finance Canada—CanREA Summit a success. A special word of thanks to Presenting Sponsor, CIBC, and Bronze Sponsors Compass Energy Consulting, DNV, Evolugen, Osler, Phoventus Canada and Gallagher.  

Photos

Quotes

“We created the Clean Power Finance Canada Summit to open dialogue between the finance and clean power industries, because the clean energy transition represents a massive investment opportunity in Canada. We need to invest in renewables and energy storage to reach Canada’s climate targets, as well as to meet the growing demand for electricity, and to stay competitive in a rapidly digitizing economy.” 

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

For interview opportunities, please contact:

Michaela Ianni, Communications Specialist 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
613-805-4465
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA

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

The passing of Bill C-59, which implements the Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit, makes Canada a more competitive place to invest in renewable energy and energy storage.

Ottawa, June 19, 2024—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) celebrates the passage today of Bill C-59, implementing the long-awaited Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit (Cleantech ITC).  

“The Clean Technology ITC will drive momentum for the renewable energy and energy storage industries in Canada. It will make Canada a more competitive place to invest, creating new opportunities for our members in all provinces and territories,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.  

Entitled An Act to implement certain provisions of the fall economic statement tabled in Parliament on November 21, 2023 and certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 28, 2023, Bill C-59 makes the Cleantech ITC available to companies looking to invest in Canada’s wind energy, solar energy, and energy storage industries. It allows companies investing in renewable energy and energy storage projects to recoup between 20 and 30 percent of their capital costs as a refundable tax credit. 

“The Cleantech ITC is potentially worth billions to the renewable energy and energy storage industries,” said Fernando Melo, CanREA’s Federal Director. “Its relatively straightforward design and refundability will put Canada in a competitive position relative to the US and other jurisdictions that are looking to decarbonize their electricity systems.” 

CanREA has been at the table with Finance Canada since August 2022 to successfully advocate for and advise on a Canadian response to the Inflation Reduction Act in the U.S.  

With this Bill, the government has put Canada on track to meet its climate targets and stay economically competitive in a rapidly digitizing economy. What’s more, it will give investors confidence that Canada will remain competitive in the long term, as the Bill specifies that the Cleantech ITC will remain available to 2034. 

“It is important to note that much more progress needs to be made to ensure and encourage Indigenous participation in the future of the electricity sector,” said Melo.  

CanREA had advocated that Indigenous communities and companies be included in the Cleantech ITC, in addition to the Clean Electricity ITC because, as noted in CanREA’s response to the Federal Budget last April, it is critical to ensure that Indigenous companies and communities can fully participate in Canada’s many calls for power. 

Now that the Cleantech ITC has been implemented, CanREA will continue to work with the government and all parliamentarians to ensure the speedy introduction and passage of the Clean Electricity ITC. 

Quotes

“The Clean Technology ITC will drive momentum for the renewable energy and energy storage industries in Canada. It will make Canada a more competitive place to invest, creating new opportunities for our members in all provinces and territories.”  

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

“The Cleantech ITC is potentially worth billions to the renewable energy and energy storage industries. Its relatively straightforward design and refundability will put Canada in a competitive position relative to the US and other jurisdictions that are looking to decarbonize their electricity systems.”   

—Fernando Melo, Federal Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) 

“It is important to note that much more progress needs to be made to ensure and encourage Indigenous participation in the future of the electricity sector.” 

—Fernando Melo, Federal Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

For interview opportunities, please contact:

Michaela Ianni, Communications Specialist 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association 
613-805-4465 
communications@renewablesassociation.ca 

About CanREA

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

Siting clarity effectively strikes a balance between the growing need for clean energy and the need to protect prime agricultural areas. 

Toronto, June 7, 2024—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) supports greater clarity on the siting of renewable energy and energy storage in Ontario, as expressed in a joint letter issued yesterday to the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) by the Ontario Minister of Energy and the Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.  

“This ministerial joint letter provides siting clarity for CanREA members, as well as for project stakeholders and rights holders, such as Indigenous communities, municipalities, landowners and farmers,” said Leonard Kula, CanREA’s Vice President of Policy—Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs.  

CanREA and its members worked with leaders in both ministries, as well other key stakeholders, to support the development of this positive outcome. 

“Clean-energy projects are needed to meet Ontario’s growing needs. This siting clarity will encourage their development in optimal locations to minimize impact on agricultural lands across the province,” Kula said. 

The ministerial joint letter provides clear planning considerations for agricultural areas and ongoing electricity procurements. Specifically:  

• For clean-energy projects located outside prime agricultural areas, such as on rural lands or lands designated for commercial or industrial purposes, an Agricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) will not be required.  

• Solar energy projects will be restricted in prime agricultural areas, as defined in municipal official plans.  

• Wind energy and energy storage projects may be sited in prime agricultural areas if they complete an AIA and receive municipal council support.  

“We have been advocating to the government to uphold local municipal decision-making authority for the siting of clean energy projects,” said Eric Muller, CanREA’s Director for Ontario. “We are pleased to see this reflected in this ministerial joint letter, which aims to ensure that municipal councils actively approve the siting of energy-generation resources, ensuring that communities are adequately informed and involved.” 

There are still details to sort out regarding the siting of projects under development, such as the process for developing and approving an AIA. CanREA will continue to work with the Ontario government and CanREA members to achieve clarity on such details. 

“This is an important step forward,” said Kula. “Affordable clean energy has a key role to play in Ontario: With the support of rural municipalities, and in partnership with Indigenous communities, properly sited wind energy, solar energy and energy storage projects can extend Ontario’s clean-electricity advantage and support our economic growth.” 

Quotes

“This ministerial joint letter provides siting clarity for CanREA members, as well as for project stakeholders and rights holders, such as Indigenous communities, municipalities, landowners and farmers. Clean-energy projects are needed to meet Ontario’s growing needs. This siting clarity will encourage their development in optimal locations to minimize impact on agricultural lands across the province.”  

—Leonard Kula, CanREA’s Vice President of Policy—Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs   

“We have been advocating to the government to uphold local municipal decision-making authority for siting of clean energy projects. We are pleased to see this reflected in this ministerial joint letter which aims to ensure that municipal councils actively approve the siting of energy-generation resources, ensuring that communities are adequately informed and involved.”   

—Eric Muller, CanREA’s Director for Ontario 

“This is an important step forward. Affordable clean energy has a key role to play in Ontario: With the support of rural municipalities, and in partnership with Indigenous communities, properly sited wind energy, solar energy and energy storage projects can extend Ontario’s clean-electricity advantage and support our economic growth.”   

 —Leonard Kula, CanREA’s Vice President of Policy—Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs   

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:

Michaela Ianni, Communications Specialist 
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
613-805-4465    
communications@renewablesassociation.ca   

About CanREA

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

CanREA holds a full-day conference in Calgary examining how energy storage can benefit Albertans.

Calgary, June 5, 2024—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) held a successful inaugural edition of its new annual event, Energy Storage Alberta—CanREA Summit. Nearly 200 people attended the Summit in Calgary today.

“CanREA created a full-day conference about energy storage in Alberta because it is important to delve into this topic to provide clarity and timely information as our province designs and implements a Restructured Energy Market or REM,” said CanREA President and CEO Vittoria Bellissimo.

CanREA welcomed Alberta’s Minister of Affordability and Utilities, Nathan Neudorf, as the keynote speaker. Minister Neudorf shared his vision for energy storage in Alberta and his views on the path forward.

“Energy storage is a key component of the clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions that Alberta needs, as do provinces across Canada,” said Bellissimo. “It is a critical technology for our sustainable energy future, presents exciting opportunities for the industry and brings value to Alberta ratepayers.”

Energy Storage Alberta 2024 kicked off with an overview session called “What’s next for the Alberta electricity market, and why do we need energy storage?” This panel examined the system and market changes expected in the next five years, focusing on how energy storage can play a significant role in keeping the lights on, affordably.

The four subsequent panels focused on reliability products, wires solutions, market participation and innovation in energy storage technologies, respectively.

CanREA invited energy-storage innovators to present case studies, both from within Alberta and from other jurisdictions, as well as subject-matter experts to lead discussions and answer two key questions: Are we set up for policy, regulatory and market success for energy storage in Alberta? And if not, how can we set ourselves up for success?

“It is very clear to me that, as we aim to deliver clean, reliable, affordable electricity to Albertans, we will need more energy storage: we need all the energy, capacity, ancillary services and non-wires solutions that it brings to the table,” said Bellissimo.

CanREA wishes to thank all attendees, moderators and speakers for helping to make the Summit a success. A special word of thanks to Silver-level sponsors Enfinite and Northland Power, and Bronze-level sponsors Bennett Jones and ATCO EnPower.

Background information: What is energy storage?

In its simplest definition, energy storage is anything that allows us to store energy in a form that can be utilized in the future—hours, days or possibly months later, depending on the technology.

Many different energy-storage technologies are in development in Canada, with some already in operation. They include batteries, hydrogen, mechanical storage (pumped hydro, compressed air, flywheels) and thermal methods. 

Batteries are probably the best-known form of energy-storage technology. But energy storage is so much more than lithium-ion batteries. Technologies are changing, companies are innovating, and new systems to solve clean-electricity challenges are being deployed every year. 

In “Beyond the battery: Innovative energy storage technologies,” a panel at Energy Storage Alberta—CanREA Summit in June 2024, panelists presented their innovative energy-storage technologies, including long-duration storage and new battery chemistries. 

What’s more, these technologies can do much more than simply store energy: They can provide many key services, including wires services (such as capacity value, peak shaving, voltage support, frequency regulation, and transmission & distribution deferral and congestion management), reliability services (such as regulating reserve, spinning reserve and black start), and market services (such as time shift, arbitrage, demand charge reduction and backup power).

Photos

Nearly 200 people attended the inaugural edition of CanREA’s Energy Storage Alberta Summit in Calgary on June 5, 2024. This full-day conference examined the myriad ways that energy storage technologies will be critical for Alberta’s sustainable energy future.

The full photo album will be posted here.

Quotes

“CanREA created a full-day conference about energy storage in Alberta because it is important to delve into this topic to provide clarity and timely information as our province designs and implements a Restructured Energy Market or REM.”  

“Energy storage is a key component of the clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions that Alberta needs, as do provinces across Canada. It is a critical technology for our sustainable energy future, presents exciting opportunities for the industry and brings value to Alberta ratepayers.”

“It is very clear to me that, as we aim to deliver clean, reliable, affordable electricity to Albertans, we will need more energy storage: we need all the energy, capacity, ancillary services and non-wires solutions that it brings to the table.”

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

For interview opportunities, please contact:

Michaela Ianni, Communications Specialist  
Canadian Renewable Energy Association   
communications@renewablesassociation.ca   

About CanREA

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

Statement from CanREA on the unveiling of Hydro-Québec’s wind power development strategy

Montreal, May 30, 2024 – The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) has reviewed Hydro-Québec’s wind power development strategy, Charting the Course toward Collective Success, presented today by Michael Sabia, President and CEO of Hydro-Québec.

This strategy comes on the heels of Action Plan 2035, which conclusively proves that the wind industry will be essential to meeting energy needs and achieving carbon neutrality in the coming years. According to Hydro-Québec, 10,000 MW will be needed.

“The Canadian Renewable Energy Association would like to reiterate how important it is to discuss the future of energy with all stakeholders, including the renewable energy sector, municipal governments, First Nations and Inuit, and all Quebecers, in order to develop innovative sustainable development solutions to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050,” said Jean Habel, CanREA’s director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada.

Habel added, “Hydro-Québec’s wind power development strategy is part of a broader discussion that will include an energy bill that is likely to be introduced by the Quebec government in the coming days. This bill will open the floor to discussion and consultation that will inform the government’s decisions about Quebec’s energy transition.”

It bears reminding that CanREA took part in the Quebec government’s consultations on the regulation and development of clean energy and shared its vision of enhancing the role of the Régie de l’énergie, enabling more agile renewable energy use and enshrining the province’s 2050 carbon neutrality target in law.

Quotes

“The Canadian Renewable Energy Association would like to reiterate how important it is to discuss the future of energy with all stakeholders, including the renewable energy sector, municipal governments, First Nations and Inuit, and all Quebecers, in order to develop innovative sustainable development solutions to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.”

“Hydro-Québec’s wind power development strategy is part of a broader discussion that will include an energy bill that is likely to be introduced by the Quebec government in the coming days. This bill will open the floor to discussion and consultation that will inform the government’s decisions about Quebec’s energy transition.”

 — Jean Habel, Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada, CanREA 

About CanREA

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

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:

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

CanREA congratulates seven member companies for their success in the IESO’s LT1 procurement for energy storage in Ontario.

Toronto, May 9, 2024— The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) wishes to congratulate seven member companies who have been selected by Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) as part of the procurement of 1,784 MW of energy storage announced today.

“CanREA applauds the strong outcomes of the IESO’s LT1 procurement,” said Leonard Kula, CanREA’s Vice-President of Policy for Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs. “Ontario ratepayers will benefit from the reliability that these additional energy supply resources provide, especially as the Pickering nuclear station is removed from service mid-decade.”  

Through this RFP, the IESO is offering contracts to 10 battery storage facilities for a total of 1,784 MW, Canada’s largest storage procurement to date.  

Today’s announcement builds on Ontario’s acquisition of 882 MW of energy storage, as announced in May 2023.  

“CanREA members are once again at the forefront of energy storage in Ontario,” said Eric Muller, CanREA’s Director for Ontario. “CanREA is proud that all of our members’ successful bids earned full support from their local municipalities, and that seven of these projects include at least 50% Indigenous equity partnerships.” 

A total of eight successful projects are led by CanREA members. In total, projects proposed by Potentia Renewables Inc., EDP Renewables Canada Ltd., Boralex Inc., Evolugen by Brookfield Renewable Power, Neoen (in partnership with Shift Solar Inc.), and Compass Energy Consulting (affiliate with Wahgoshig Solar FIT5 LP) account for 1,384.22 MW of capacity—nearly 78% of the total announced today.   

• CanREA Industry Leader Member Potentia Renewables is seeking to develop a 390 MW battery facility in the Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal, including 50% Indigenous participation with Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation. This will be the largest stand-alone storage facility in Canada. 
• CanREA Terawatt Member EDP Renewables will seek to develop a 71.25 MW battery facility in the City of St. Thomas, including 50% Indigenous participation with Caldwell First Nation.  
• CanREA Terawatt Member Boralex will seek to develop a 118 MW battery facility in the Township of South-West Oxford, including 50% Indigenous participation with CanREA Megawatt+ Member Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation.  
• CanREA Megawatt+ Member Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation was also successful in partnering on two additional battery facility projects: a proposed 200 MW facility in the Township of Centre Wellington and another 200 MW facility in Haldimand County.
• CanREA Gigawatt Member Evolugen by Brookfield Renewable Power will seek to develop two battery facilities near Ottawa, of 250 MW and 150 MW respectively, both including 50% Indigenous participation with Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation. 
• Shift Solar Inc. with partner Neoen, a CanREA Gigawatt Member, will seek to develop a 380 MW battery facility near Arran-Elderslie. 
• Wahgoshig Solar FIT5 LP, with its affiliate Compass Energy Consulting, a CanREA Gigawatt Member, will seek to develop two battery facilities: a 9.49 MW facility in the Municipality of Mississippi Mills and a 15.48 MW facility in the Township of North Glengarry. Both projects include 51% Indigenous participation with Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation. 

Ontario’s energy storage procurements are expected to represent a total of 2,916 MW on the grid by 2028. This will complement the IESO’s renewable energy procurements, including 2,000 MW of new non-emitting electricity generation by 2030 expected as part of the “Long-Term 2 Request for Proposals” (LT2 RFP), as well as 1,500 MW for 2032 and an additional 1,500 MW for 2034. The LT2 RFP will also procure an additional 500-1,000 MW of capacity to be in service by 2031. 

“Affordable, clean and reliable energy storage is a key capacity resource that should be employed across Canada. It will help ensure our clean-electricity advantage continues,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO.  

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

Quotes

“CanREA applauds the strong outcomes of the IESO’s LT1 procurement. Ontario ratepayers will benefit from the reliability that these additional energy supply resources provide, especially as Pickering is removed from service mid-decade.” 

—Leonard Kula, Vice-President of Policy for Eastern Canada and Utility Affairs, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)  

“CanREA members are once again at the forefront of energy storage in Ontario. CanREA is proud that all of our members’ successful bids earned full support from their local municipalities, and that seven of these projects include at least 50% Indigenous equity partnerships.”  

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

“Affordable, clean and reliable energy storage is a key capacity resource that should be employed across Canada. It will help ensure our clean-electricity advantage continues.” 

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

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications   
Canadian Renewable Energy Association   
communications@renewablesassociation.ca   

About CanREA

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

CanREA welcomes the Federal Budget and will continue to push for acceleration of timelines.

Ottawa, April 16, 2024—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes Budget 2024, as presented today by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland. Budget 2024 represents positive steps for Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage industry regarding the Investment Tax Credits (ITCs), the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program and the Green Choice Program.

First announced in last year’s Budget, Canada’s refundable ITCs for clean technologies, such as wind, solar, storage and green hydrogen, represent a Canadian response to the American incentives for credits for renewable energy and green hydrogen, per the Inflation Reduction Act 2022.

CanREA particularly commends the Government of Canada for its commitment to Indigenous economic empowerment in Budget 2024. The introduction of enabling legislation for the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program marks a significant step towards fostering economic opportunities for Indigenous communities across the country.

“We are pleased to see that the enabling legislation for the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program has been tabled as part of the Budget. The Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program is a gamechanger that will boost opportunities for Indigenous communities and companies to build the renewable energy and energy storage projects that Canada needs, both as equity partners and as developers in their own right,” said CanREA President and CEO Vittoria Bellissimo. 

There was also promising news on the timeline for the Clean Technology ITC, which was put forward in the Fall Economic Statement Implementation Act, 2023 (Bill C-59), in November 2023:

“It is reassuring to hear that the government anticipates Bill C-59 receiving Royal Assent before June 1, 2024. The passage of this bill will enable CanREA’s member companies to access the Clean Technology ITC, which will spur growth in Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage sectors,” said CanREA Federal Policy Director Fernando Melo, who was on site for the introduction of the Budget today.  

CanREA also appreciates the presentation of further details on the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit. “We look forward to the enabling legislation being tabled so that we have further details on the Clean Electricity ITC. Its speedy introduction will be critical to ensuring that Indigenous companies and corporations can fully participate in Canada’s many calls for power,” said Melo.

CanREA is also pleased that Greener Homes Initiative’s loan program will continue to be funded under Budget 2024, which proposes to provide $903.5 million to Natural Resources Canada over six years starting in 2024-25, of which $800 million will support the launch a new Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program.

This Program, which will support the direct installation of energy efficiency retrofits for Canadian households with low to median incomes, represents the next phase of the Canada Greener Homes Initiative and will be co-delivered with provincial and territorial partners. It will also be complemented by CMHC’s Greener Homes Loan program, which provides interest-free loans of up to $40,000 for energy efficiency.

“The Green Choice Program has helped thousands of Canadians go solar, and its continuation will be incredibly important for the further development of Canada’s residential solar sector,” said CanREA Director of Distributed Energy Resources, Erwin Heuck. 

While Budget 2024 did not provide the implementation legislation for the Clean Technology Manufacturing ITC, Clean Hydrogen ITC, or Clean Electricity ITC, it provides an update to the timeline for these to be legislated. CanREA will continue to advocate for accelerating the rollout of Canada’s Investment Tax Credits. 

Quotes

“We are pleased to see that the enabling legislation for the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program has been tabled as part of the Budget. This program is a gamechanger that will boost opportunities for Indigenous communities and companies to build the renewable energy and energy storage projects that Canada needs, both as equity partners and as developers in their own right.”

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

“It is reassuring to hear that the government anticipates Bill C-59 receiving Royal Assent before June 1, 2024. The passage of this bill will enable CanREA’s member companies to access the Clean Technology ITC, which will spur growth in Canada’s renewable energy and energy storage sectors. CanREA also appreciates the presentation of further details on the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit. We look forward to the enabling legislation being tabled so that we have further details on the Clean Electricity ITC. Its speedy introduction will be critical to ensuring that Indigenous companies and corporations can fully participate in Canada’s many calls for power.”

—Fernando Melo, Federal Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

“The Green Choice Program has helped thousands of Canadians go solar, and its continuation will be incredibly important for the further development of Canada’s residential solar sector.”

— Erwin Heuck, Director of Distributed Energy Resources, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

For interview opportunities, please contact:

Michaela Ianni, Communications Specialist
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
613-805-4465
communications@renewablesassociation.ca

About CanREA

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

Calgary hosts Canada’s largest wind, solar and energy-storage operations conference and exhibition.

Calgary, April 11, 2024—Nearly 300 people assembled in Calgary this week for CanREA’s Operations Summit, Canada’s largest conference and exhibition devoted to the operation of renewable energy and energy storage sites.

“This is the fourth annual edition of our Operations Summit, and it’s the first time we hosted in Calgary,” said Vittoria Bellissimo, CanREA’s President and CEO. “This event brings together wind, solar and energy storage operators to learn from each other and improve how they operate facilities across Canada—making them safer, more resilient and more efficient.”

This annual CanREA event is geared for those who construct, operate and supply this country’s expanding fleet of wind, solar, and energy storage assets: these are the people who deliver the nuts and bolts of Canada’s energy transition. Fittingly, this year’s theme was “Operating in a Changing Climate.”

“Operators are on the front lines of climate change,” said Mathieu Côté, Director of CanREA’s Operators Program. “At the Operations Summit, we asked them to share the best practices, lessons learned and technologies they are using to ensure the safe, reliable and effective operations of Canada’s renewable energy sites, even as our wind and solar regimes are getting less predictable and our sites are being subjected to increasingly extreme weather events.”

Through interesting discussions and engaging presentations, the conference program covered highly technical operations topics, such as how to build a cost-effective solar maintenance program, turbine blade issues and how to avoid them, and natural disasters from a Health and Safety perspective.

It featured not one, but two National Operators Roundtables—one for wind operators and one for solar operators. Mathieu Côté led the discussion as attendees compared experiences from across the country, shared best practices, near misses and ‘good to know’ elements, brainstormed solutions to common problems, and provided feedback that will shape the future of CanREA’s Operators program.

CanREA wishes to thank all attendees, exhibitors and event sponsors for helping to make this year’s Operations Summit a success. A special thank you to Health and Safety Sponsor Liberty Power, Lunch Sponsors Pandell and Goldwind, Mobile App Sponsor Energy Safety Canada, Hospitality Sponsors EDF Renewables and SparkPower, and Session Sponsor Irth.

Don’t miss the Operations Summit 2025! To stay informed, subscribe to Watt’s On, CanREA’s events newsletter.

Photos

Media can contact CanREA for more high-resolution photos. A photo album from the Summit will be available soon, here.

Quotes

“This is the fourth annual edition of our Operations Summit, and it’s the first time we hosted in Calgary. This event brings together wind, solar and energy storage operators to learn from each other and improve how they operate facilities across Canada—making them safer, more resilient and more efficient.”

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

“Operators are on the front lines of climate change. At the Operations Summit, we asked them to share the best practices, lessons learned and technologies they are using to ensure the safe, reliable and effective operations of Canada’s renewable energy sites, even as our wind and solar regimes are getting less predictable and our sites are being subjected to increasingly extreme weather events.”

— Mathieu Côté, Operators Program Director, Canadian Renewable Energy Association

For media inquiries and interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
(613) 805-4465
communications@renewablesassociation.ca

About CanREA

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

CanREA applauds the Quebec government’s goal of acquiring 300 MW of solar energy.

Montreal, March 26, 2024. –  The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) welcomes the Quebec government’s intention to move forward with proposed regulation for a multi-phase solar acquisition in Quebec, as announced today by Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy.

This will be a first for Quebec: This announcement is a breakthrough for the solar industry. Quebec currently only produces 15 megawatts (MW) of solar energy, which is 0.32 per cent of the 4,600 MW already installed in Canada.

“This announcement is a step in the right direction for the solar industry, but solar can do even more to meet the growing needs of Quebecers in coming years,” says Jean Habel, CanREA’s Director for Quebec and Atlantic Canada.

Opportunity to speak up

After publishing this proposal in the Gazette officielle du Québec, the Quebec government will receive feedback about solar energy from stakeholders far and wide during the 45-day consultation period.

CanREA will join those stakeholders in calling on the Quebec government to seize this major opportunity to use solar energy, with or without energy storage, to reduce our collective carbon footprint.

Half of Quebec’s current energy portfolio still relies on energy sources that produce a large amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, making solar installations in Quebec a real asset on the road to net-zero. This is why Quebec must act quickly to set up regulatory conditions that encourage the greater use of solar energy.

The federal government plans to roll out a 30% tax credit on capital investment costs in renewable technology like solar until 2034, making now the time to act.

Draft regulation that targets multiple blocks of solar energy

Under the proposed regulation, Hydro-Québec would issue RFPs totalling 300 MW. The first could be launched before the end of 2024.

For many years now, CanREA has been calling on Quebec to set clear procurement targets and solidify the future of all forms of renewable energy in the province.

“CanREA welcomes the predictability that this proposed regulation would provide, but it bears repeating that Quebec would benefit from incorporating even more solar energy in its electricity mix. More rooftop solar and optimized solar sites would produce better economy of scale and improve the overall outlook for solar in Quebec,” adds Habel.

Consult the draft regulation here. (in French only)

Quotes

“This announcement is a step in the right direction for the solar industry, but solar can do even more to meet the growing needs of Quebecers in coming years.”

“CanREA welcomes the predictability that this proposed regulation would provide, but it bears repeating that Quebec would benefit from incorporating even more solar energy in its electricity mix. More rooftop solar and optimized solar sites would produce better economy of scale and improve the overall outlook for solar in Quebec.” 

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

For media inquiries and interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications
Canadian Renewable Energy Association
(613) 805-4465
communications@renewablesassociation.ca

About CanREA

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