October 23, 2023 Lac-Mégantic, Quebec Natural Resources Canada
The Government of Canada is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity system to achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035. That is why we are investing in renewable energy initiatives that support Canada's clean energy transition and lead to decarbonized, smart and integrated utilities that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, keep our air clean and support stronger, healthier communities for everyone to call home.
Today, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of National Revenue, on behalf of the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced an investment of $2.5 million for the City of Lac-Mégantic to support capacity-building activities that will increase the knowledge and skills related to the city's microgrid. Hydro-Québec also contributed to this project, bringing the total investment to $3.75 million.
With this funding, the city will develop new solutions for carbon-neutral, eco-friendly neighbourhoods. Experts in construction, engineering, urban planning and municipal tax funding will come together to produce a framework for the city's energy transition. The expertise acquired in Lac-Mégantic will then be accessible and adaptable for other municipalities interested in modernizing their grids and enabling the integration of local clean energy production. Projects like this one help lay the foundation for efficient economy-wide electrification.
Hydro-Québec and Lac-Mégantic are currently engaged in the construction of a state-of-the-art building with affordable units equipped with energy-efficient technologies. The goal is to advance the conversation on the best practices and technologies that help foster energy justice and better equity in the energy sector.
Increased knowledge and literacy in energy transition is supported by better-equipped younger generations in Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. In collaboration with local grade school and high school students, industry experts will create educational materials intended for classroom use. These students will be paired with Indigenous youth from the North to create cultural connections and to exchange knowledge on the energy transition and the technologies that will help Canada achieve it.
The city will launch a citizen's portal, accessible to all, providing information on energy-efficient best practices for building construction and renovation.
Canada already has one of the cleanest grids in the world, with more than three-quarters of its electricity supply being emissions-free. As we move toward a net-zero economy and electricity system, grid modernization projects such as this will help solidify the country as a leader in clean electricity generation.
