To achieve net-zero emission goals, this budget must strategically dedicate resources to prepare for a significant scale-up in energy efficiency. Canada lags other nations in the efficient use of energy resources. A recent International Energy Agency analysis showed that Canada has the highest energy intensity measured by total final consumption per unit of GDP amongst all member countries. However, this suggests there is significant potential to cut energy costs, improve productivity, and reduce emissions.
The federal government has a clear mandate to accelerate GHG reductions and create a net-zero emissions future. To do that, we need to retrofit almost every building in Canada to be highly energy efficient and to use zero-carbon energy sources.
This blog responds to a Canada Energy Centre brief blaming sustainable energy for energy poverty.
The Prime Minister of Canada released the “mandate letters” to federal Ministers. Here are energy efficiency highlights from the letters, with some added context.
If Canada were to delay appliance energy standards, it would result in higher emissions and higher energy costs. By using Energy Star as a benchmark, we can be aligned – but ahead – of the US and be better prepared to align with the even higher standards likely to come.