(Photo Supplied: A TransAlta Corporation Coal facility. TransAlta / WEB)
As the province transitions away from coal powered generation plants it outlined its climate leadership plan today. Minister of Energy Margaret McCuaig-Boyd and Minister of Environment and Parks Shannon Phillips announced the government’s goal of having 30 per cent of its electricity come from renewable sources.
“Transitioning away from coal creates a tremendous opportunity for new investment in Alberta. Throughout the course of this phase-out, our province will see billions of dollars in new investments,” said McCuaig-Boyd. “While this transition takes place, our government is committed to working with the companies operating in our competitive market, as well as those looking to invest to ensure that everyone is treated fairly.”
The government has committed to replacing retired coal with at least two-third renewable energy sources. It also promises to support coal workers to retrain for jobs in a greener energy economy.
The province will also appoint an independent facilitator and negotiator to help develop and implement the plan without endangering the electricity system through the transition.
