The Government of Canada announced the launch of a $964-million program to support smart renewable energy and grid modernization projects that will lower emissions by investing in clean energy technologies, like wind, solar, storage, hydro, geothermal and tidal.
The Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs) supports building Canada’s low-emissions energy future and a renewable, electrified economy through projects that focus on non-emitting, cleaner energy technologies, such as storage, and modernizing electricity system operations.
Investing in these technologies reduces greenhouse gas emissions by creating a cleaner, more connected electrical system that helps Canada reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
“Our new Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program will increase our grid’s renewable capacity and improve its reliability and resiliency. This means a cleaner, more reliable electricity supply for Canadians. This is how we get to net zero by 2050,” stated Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Natural Resources.
He made the announcement during the Canadian Electricity Association’s (CEA) virtual regulatory forum on “Electricity Regulation & the Four Disruptors – Decarbonization, Decentralization, Digitalization and Democratization.” The launch also coincided with Canadian Environment Week, which celebrates Canada’s environmental accomplishments and encourages Canadians to contribute to conserving and protecting the environment.
Through SREPs and other programming, the government is working with provinces and territories, utilities, Indigenous partners and others, including diverse businesses and communities, to deliver these clean and reliable energy initiatives. With Canadian innovation, technology and skilled energy workers, we can provide more communities, households and businesses with an increased supply of clean electricity and a cleaner electrical grid.
Featured image: Photo by Alexander Schimmeck on Unsplash