In a recent study of worldwide energy technologies, the International Energy Agency (IEA) praised Canada’s record of developing clean energy solutions. The IEA’s positive remarks bring welcome relief to a nation that has endured negative publicity because of recent oil sands development projects.
Carbon capture is an emerging green technology that allows companies to sequester carbon pollution before it can enter the atmosphere. Of the 80 carbon capture projects designed to reduce worldwide emissions by 50% over the next 40 years, 6 operate in Canada, representing nearly $3.5 billion in investments.
Canada further demonstrated its commitment to clean energy this month when Ontario shut down four coal power plants. Since 2003, coal power carbon emissions have dropped 71% across the province. Over that same period, Ontario has installed more than 8,000 megawatts of clean energy capacity to help offset the reduction in coal-powered electricity production.
Canada Promotes Clean Energy Abroad and at Home
While the IEA was commending Canada’s role in developing clean energy and carbon capture technology, the federal government announced a $400 million plan to help developing nations respond to climate change. The plan will divide the funds amongst adaptation, clean energy, and forestry or agricultural projects. Canadian Environment Minister, Jim Prentice, notes that the $400 million commitment is the largest amount Canada has ever contributed to climate change projects.
Canada’s growing investment in global clean energy is mirrored by Ontario’s feed-in tariff (FIT) program, which subsidizes green projects. In its first year of operation, the FIT program received over 23,000 submissions for solar and wind projects, most of which were for small-scale installations. Green job creation and renewed interest in solar training courses have accompanied the increased demand for clean energy.
Ontario Solar Academy, First Nations Lead the Way
Demand for clean energy solutions is not restricted to the corporate or even residential sectors in Canada. Ontario Solar Academy (OSA), Canada’s only ISPQ-accredited solar training school, recently launched a 5-day training session for First Nation students, demonstrating solar’s massive appeal throughout the province. As part of the program, the students installed a 10 kilowatt (kW) solar power system at the Curve Lake First Nation Reservation. Ontario Solar Academy remains poised to join other First Nations groups in projects inspired by the one at Curve Lake, but it also offers courses in the Greater Toronto Area - one of the largest solar hotspots in this provincial green mecca.
