For Alberta to reach 5,ooo MW of renewables, it is estimated that at least $10.5 billion in new investment will flow into the provincial economy by 2030. This will mean at least 7,200 new jobs for Albertans as new projects are developed.
The province of Alberta has plans to install 5,000 MW of renewable energy to meet a new clean energy target of 30% by 2030. To help achieve this 30 by ’30, the Government of Alberta will support 5,000 MW of new renewables, including wind, solar, and hydro-power.
To reach this target, it is estimated that at least $10.5 billion in new investment will flow into the provincial economy by 2030. This will mean at least 7,200 new jobs for Albertans as projects are built.
“Growing our renewables sector is a transformational opportunity for Alberta to become a more energy-efficient, lower-carbon province,” said Shannon Phillips, Minister of Environment and Parks and Minister Responsible for the Climate Change Office. “These targets provide clarity for Albertans, industry, Indigenous communities, municipalities and all stakeholders, and will help us reduce greenhouse gas emissions and grow our economy.”
Through the Renewable Electricity Program, the province will solicit enough investment in Alberta’s electricity system to meet the target, while ensuring projects come online in a way that does not impact grid reliability and is cost-effective. The program will be run by the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO).
To be eligible for support within the Renewable Electricity Program, projects must:
- Be based in Alberta
- Be new or expanded
- Be 5 MW or greater in size
- Meet the Natural Resources Canada definition of renewable sources
The program will be based on recommendations provided to government by the Alberta Electric System Operator.
“Alberta’s new target of 30%of electricity coming from renewables within 14 years is achievable. Experience and analysis from around the world, including recently released, Pan-Canadian wind-integration findings, make it clear that Alberta can reliably integrate this level of renewable energy into the grid,” said Robert Hornung, president of the Canadian Wind Energy Association. “And new investment in wind power will create jobs and economic opportunities throughout the province.”
Further details on how the program will operate will be released later this year.
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