Energy Policies of IEA Countries: Canada 2009
The International Energy Agency's periodic review of Canada's energy policies and
programmes. This 2010 edition finds that Canada, with its diverse and balanced portfolio
of energy resources, is one of the largest producers and exporters of energy among
IEA member countries. The energy sector plays an increasingly important role for the
Canadian economy and for global energy security, as its abundant resource base has
the potential to deliver even greater volumes of energy.
The federal, provincial and territorial governments of Canada are all strongly committed
to the sustainable development of the country’s natural resources and have a long-standing
and informed awareness of the need for each to contribute to the development of the
energy sector. Furthermore, the government of Canada seeks to achieve a balance between
the environmentally responsible production and use of energy, the growth and competitiveness
of the economy, and secure and competitively priced energy and infrastructure.
Nonetheless, the long-term sustainability of the sector remains a challenge. Due to
climatic, geographic and other factors, Canada is one of the highest per-capita CO2
emitters in the OECD and has higher energy intensity than any IEA member country.
A comprehensive national energy efficiency strategy, coupled with a coordinated climate
change policy targeted at the key emitting sectors, is needed.
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a priority for the federal government and presents
Canada with an opportunity to develop a new technology that can reduce greenhouse
gas emissions on a large scale. The IEA recommends that Canada provide international
leadership in the development of CCS technology.
This review analyses the energy challenges facing Canada and provides sectoral critiques
and recommendations for further policy improvements.
Published on April 13, 2010
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