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3mo ago

Policy Uncertainty Drives Down Investment in Alberta’s Renewable Energy Sector

Unclear regulations fuel a net drop in the province’s renewable project connection queue

A new report from the Pembina Institute says provincial government's policies towards renewable energy have weakened investors confidence in the industry in Alberta.
Wind turbines near Pincher Creek, Alta. A report from the Pembina Institute says Alberta's policies around renewable energy have had a chilling effect on investments into projects such as these.
Wind turbines are seen near Pincher Creek. Alberta will institute new rules for renewable energy projects, limiting their construction on farmland and adding buffers to protect landscape views.
A study by the Pembina Institute shows uncertainty in the Alberta renewable energy sector is leading to decreased investment.

Overview

  • The province’s moratorium, location limits, recycling fees and reclamation security requirements have chilled wind and solar development.
  • By late 2024, applications in Alberta’s connection queue returned to pre-moratorium levels but cancellations outnumbered new proposals.
  • Alberta officials maintain the province still leads Canada in renewables investment while reducing electricity costs and enhancing grid reliability.
  • The Pembina Institute urges Alberta to set a clear vision for a clean, resilient power system, fast-track suitable projects and modernize market regulations.
  • Other jurisdictions such as Australia and Texas are expanding their renewable pipelines while Alberta’s sector contracts.