Ottawa (November 22, 2016) – The Honourable Sergio Marchi, President and CEO of the Canadian Electricity Association, issued the following statement today in response to the Government of Canada’s announcement regarding the accelerated transition from traditional coal-fired power:
“With an electricity generation mix over 80% greenhouse gas (GHG)-free, Canada’s electricity system is among the cleanest in the world. Electricity companies have reduced emissions 30% since 2005, and continue to do so at a pace unmatched by any other sector of the economy.
Prior to yesterday’s announcement, 93% of Canada’s traditional coal-fired generating capacity was scheduled to come offline by 2030. The Government’s announcement accelerates the transition away from traditional coal power.
CEA has previously communicated to the Government its concerns regarding the potential impacts, such as rate increases, that an accelerated coal phase-out may have on the regional economies reliant on coal-fired electricity. As they deliver further emissions reductions, individual electricity companies must have the flexibility to:
With this in mind, I am heartened to see three specific flexibility mechanisms embedded in the announcement: equivalency agreements; the use of the Canadian Infrastructure Bank to finance projects; and the conversion of coal plants to gas.
While it is too soon to know if these mechanisms will be sufficient, flexibility is the key to achieving the outcomes that Canadians want - GHG emission reductions and better air quality - with the least cost and disruption to their lives and livelihoods.”
Key Facts:
About the Canadian Electricity Association:
Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) members generate, transmit and distribute electrical energy to industrial, commercial, residential and institutional customers across Canada every day. From vertically integrated electric utilities, independent power producers, transmission and distribution companies, to power marketers, to the manufacturers and suppliers of materials, technology and services that keep the industry running smoothly -- all are represented by this national industry association.