The CHFCA Encourages a Swift Resolution to the Moratorium on Renewable Energy Projects in Alberta
August 8, 2023
EDMONTON, AB – On August 03, 2023, at the direction of the Alberta Government through an order-in-council, the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) announced it will be pausing approvals of new renewable electricity generation projects that are over one megawatt until February 29, 2024. During this 6-month moratorium, the AUC will hold an inquiry into the ongoing economic, orderly, and efficient development of electricity generation in Alberta.
The CHFCA is concerned about the potential impact of this decision on investor confidence in Alberta’s emerging industries, particularly the renewable energy industry, which will work in concert with the hydrogen sector to shape Canada’s net-zero future. This situation could slow down the momentum that Alberta has been building towards a more robust and sustainable clean energy economy.
Alberta led Canada for renewable energy growth in 2022, accounting for 77 percent of the solar and wind generation capacity generated that year, benefitting from its high-quality renewable natural resources and the province’s market advantages, known as the “Alberta Advantage.” The province is already a well-regulated jurisdiction governed by a strong framework of renewable energy policies and environmental standards that protects consumers, landowners, and communities. Alberta cannot risk losing investors to market uncertainty and the competitive business advantages that have made the province the renewable energy capital of Canada.
Renewable electricity will also play a critical role in the development of the clean-hydrogen economy in Alberta. Clean hydrogen can be obtained through the process known as electrolysis, which uses renewable electricity to split water into oxygen and hydrogen. Therefore, the power of renewable electricity can be harnessed to produce a carrier of energy that can decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors. Renewable electricity and hydrogen will work together to shape Canada’s net-zero future.
“Amidst the current pause on renewable project approvals, securing investor confidence for existing and future renewable energy projects is crucial. Alberta’s expertise in the clean energy landscape, alongside the key role of hydrogen in decarbonization, will be critical to addressing this challenge and maintaining the province’s leadership position in the energy sector,” said Ivette Vera-Perez, President and CEO of the CHFCA.
As part of its advocacy activities for Western Canada, the CHFCA plans to engage with the provincial government, collaborate closely with members and like-minded industry associations, and actively contribute to the AUC inquiry. These actions are aimed at facilitating a prompt and satisfactory resolution to the current moratorium.
About the Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association (CHFCA)
The Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association (CHFCA) is a national association that supports industry, academia, government agencies, financial organizations and other stakeholders focused on hydrogen and fuel cell technologies and products. As the collective voice of Canada’s world-leading hydrogen and fuel cell sector, the CHFCA’s mission is to strengthen Canadian leadership, raise awareness of the benefits of the technology, and accelerate the adoption of its members’ products and services in Canada and abroad. The CHFCA has nearly 200 members across Canada and regional affiliates in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. You can also follow CHFCA on Twitter at @PoweringNow or visit www.chfca.ca for more information.