The Canada Electricity Advisory Council launched last week is an important step toward clean electricity in Canada, but only if it can advise on how to move away from fossil fuels.
The council will have a one-year mandate to offer advice and recommend best approaches, supports and pathways for Canada to achieve 100 per cent zero-emissions electricity by 2035, including through the upcoming federal clean electricity regulations.
The council is an independent body of 19 members, chaired by Philippe Dunsky, president of Dunsky Energy + Climate Advisors.
Stephen Thomas, Clean Energy Manager, David Suzuki Foundation, said:
“The formation of the Canada Electricity Advisory Council is an important step in getting Canada to 100 per cent affordable, secure, zero-emissions electricity by 2035.
“However, we are concerned about the fossil fuel representatives on this council. Clean electricity is fossil fuel–free electricity. There is significant risk of loopholes being created for fossil fuel generation in upcoming federal regulations. We believe this council should address this risk, not make it worse.
“We hope the members of this council will share their expertise to bring forward the solutions we need. As Canada’s electricity system doubles or even triples in size in the coming decades, this group’s advice on the unprecedented collaboration required between regions will be even more important.
“This news comes as we wait for the federal clean electricity regulations. We’re calling for strong, effective regulations that unlock the benefits of more affordable, healthier, secure renewable electricity for everyone in Canada while leaving fossil fuel electricity behind once and for all.
“We look forward to engaging with this council to share our research and perspectives that highlight the benefits of low-cost renewables for households in Canada.”