Canada has federal targets for energy emissions, which impact electricity system utilities, private sector actors in electricity and energy services, and electricity customers. Regulated utilities are anticipated to play a significant role in supporting Canada’s energy transition to net-zero emission by 2050 (NZ2050), however, in many cases their exact role is still being determined for any given pathway to NZ2050. When contemplating how to scale certain grid modernization solutions in time for achieving NZ2050, the regulatory context for energy utilities comes into focus, as it directly influences utility investments in innovation projects and infrastructure. This initiative will produce a framework for enhancing federal programs to support provincial and territorial processes that can accelerate grid modernization and scale innovative solutions for energy sector transformation in Canada.

As part of the federal government’s overall emissions reduction plans, Canada has committed to introducing clean electricity regulations, aimed at achieving a net-zero emissions electricity system by 2035. Replacing fossil fuels with clean electricity can help to mitigate climate change and promote greater energy security within Canada. It can also help to address challenges linked to fossil fuels, such as environmental degradation, poor air quality and inequality. 

Phasing out fossil fuel electricity generation and switching from fossil fuel end uses to clean electricity will be far-reaching and will require modernizing the electricity system, as well as transitioning to technologies compatible with clean electricity. Such changes will increase the demand for electricity as well as present potential upfront costs, which may be especially challenging for households that are already struggling to afford their energy needs.
 

To mitigate energy poverty in the context of a clean energy transition, this report makes policy recommendations on the following four areas: National Energy Poverty Strategy, Universal Clean Energy Service, Affordable Energy, Decarbonizing and Efficiency for the Residential Sector.  

Many communities are increasingly developing community energy plans. For this project, QUEST Canada aimed to address effective engagement for equitable and just community energy and emissions planning design. I provided analysis of the activities and reviewed the Smart Energy Communities Benchmarking tool and Community Energy Plans on the basis of equity and inclusivity.