Premiers advance responsible energy development

WHITEHORSE, July 21, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - Premiers discussed the ongoing collaborative work of all provinces and territories on the Canadian Energy Strategy (CES). Premiers approved the CES last year to enable a cooperative approach to sustainable energy development that enhances the ways that energy is produced, moved and used in Canada. This will help maximize the social, environmental and economic benefits that flow from the energy sector and improve the quality of life in Canada. The CES underpins the shared priorities of economic strength, job creation, climate action, energy security and innovation.

Provinces and territories have undertaken foundational work to identify opportunities to maximize export and import capabilities of energy, transportation and transmission infrastructure. They have also created a platform to align and enhance priority energy efficiency regulations, and developed joint recommendations to the federal government to support continuous improvements to the National Energy Code for Buildings and the National Building Code.

Active collaborative work also continues on supporting the development of new energy technologies and improving access to diesel alternatives for remote communities not attached to electricity grids.

Premiers committed to continue collaborative work in priority areas, and welcomed participation of the federal government in certain areas of CES work, including reducing diesel use in remote and off-grid communities, supporting clean energy technology and innovation, and enhancing energy efficiency policies and mechanisms. Consistent with the Vancouver Declaration, CES work will also contribute to the development of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.

Premiers acknowledged that the oil and gas industry is important for Canada and will continue to be an important contributor to the livelihoods of families and communities across Canada into the future while we move towards a lower carbon economy.

Premiers also reaffirmed their commitment to work with the federal government to bring Canada's energy resources to domestic and international markets as a key element in supporting long-term job creation and economic growth while strengthening access to energy.  Development of our energy resources and related infrastructure must be in compliance with the highest standards for public safety and environmental protection.

Premiers emphasized the importance of transitioning to cleaner and renewable energy sources to ensure long term economic resiliency and energy security. New and enhanced inter-jurisdictional electricity inter-ties can be a key tool in supporting clean growth, opening up new markets, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Sustainable development and innovation in all of Canada's energy resources must be key elements in our efforts to build a clean growth economy while taking action against climate change. Energy development projects should also take into account the interests of local communities and fulfill the duty to consult with Aboriginal communities.

Premiers assert that the environmental assessment and regulatory processes for major projects must be effective, timely and predictable.  Premiers reaffirm previous commitments to the principle of substitution as a tool in environmental assessment as it maintains standards and reduces duplication.

SOURCE Canada's Premiers

Kate Durand, Communications, Executive Council Office, Government of Yukon, [phone], Cell: [phone]; [email protected]