Speaking from Calgary at a renewable energy industry conference, the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change highlighted that this initiative will create significant new demand for renewable electricity across Canada including a significant purchase of renewable electricity for Department of National Defence installations in Alberta (Calgary, Cold Lake, Edmonton, Wainwright, and Suffield).
John Gorman, CanSIA President & CEO, released the following statement in support of today's announcement:
"The Federal Government's commitment to purchasing 100% renewable electricity from sources, such as solar energy, as early as 2025 makes a significant contribution to Canada's innovation and environmental protection agenda in two ways.
Firstly, they have the purchasing power to make a difference. Not only will their actions directly displace significant levels of greenhouse gas emissions, it will also give rise to new businesses and infrastructure.
Secondly, being a part of the global response to climate change will bring changes to the decisions that are made by all consumers for goods, products and services. By leading by example, the Government of Canada is demonstrating that every one of us has a role to play in making the right decision for future generations."