Alberta Government Announces Climate Leadership Plan

On November 22, the Alberta government announced that it is developing a new strategy on climate change based on recommendations put forward by the Climate Change Advisory Panel. Details of the final strategy are being developed, but there are four key areas that the Alberta government is moving forward on: 

1. Phasing out coal-generated electricity and developing more renewable energy: Pollution from coal-fired sources of electricity will be phased out completely by 2030. In place of coal, cleaner sources of generation (e.g., natural gas, wind, solar, biomass) will meet Alberta’s power needs. Click here for more information.
2. Implementing a new carbon price on greenhouse gas pollution: Alberta’s use of a carbon price would cover 78 to 90 per cent of provincial emissions, which would be the highest in Canada. A carbon price will be applied across all sectors, starting at $20 per tonne on January 1, 2017 and moving to $30 per tonne on January 1, 2018. Emissions from transportation and heating fuels will be priced at the distributor and importer stage. Click here for more information.
3. A legislated oil sands emission limit: Alberta will transition to a $30/tonne carbon price for oil sands facilities to drive towards reduced emissions. Click here for more information.
4. Employing a new methane emission reduction plan: Alberta is targeting a 45 per cent reduction in methane gas emissions from Alberta’s oil and gas operations by 2025. Click here for more information.

The CPA will monitor the implementation of the strategy and update members on additional details as they become available. Questions can be directed to Scott McFadyen, CPA Regional Manager, West at 403.543.6505 or scottmcfadyen@propane.ca.