Canada - CanWEA applauds Quebec 2006 - 2015 Energy Strategy

Premier Jean Charest today announced the Quebec government's energy strategy for 2006-2015. The strategy outlines the province's energy plans over the next ten years, including the development of a total of 4,000 MW of wind energy. This includes 500 MW reserved for regions and First Nations. "CanWEA is pleased that the Quebec government has reaffirmed its commitment to capitalize on the significant opportunity that wind represents in the province" says Sean Whittaker, Policy Director of the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA). "Through to 2015 it is expected that Quebec will be a leader among Canadian provinces in terms of total installed wind capacity" adds Whittaker.

With 4,000 MW in 2015, wind will represent as much as 10 percent of installed generating capacity, satisfying between 4 to 5 percent of the province's total electricity demand. Building on this, the energy strategy also specifies that Quebec will pursue research and development activities to increase the integration of wind energy, opening the possibility for even greater wind development. "Experience in other countries indicates that much higher wind integration is possible. Countries such as Spain currently satisfy 8 percent of their total electricity demand through wind. In Denmark, wind today satisfies 18 percent of total demand" says Whittaker. Going forward, CanWEA is optimistic that Quebec will be able to further develop its substantial wind resource and meet CanWEA's stated goal of having wind satisfy at least 10 percent of Quebec's electricity needs.

CanWEA also applauds the energy strategy's call for the implementation of wind-diesel for independent networks in remote communities. "Wind and wind-diesel hybrid systems are a proven way for remote communities to satisfy their electricity needs at a competitive price, reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, and reduce emissions of both air and water pollutants" says Whittaker. He adds, "This initiative will greatly benefit these communities, including many non grid-connected First Nations groups."

"In all, the energy strategy provides a solid foundation for Quebec's wind energy future. CanWEA looks forward to working with the government to develop the wind industry in Quebec for the benefit of all Quebecers" says Whittaker.

The Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) represents more than 230 companies involved in Canada's wind energy industry, including wind turbine and component manufacturers, wind energy project developers, electric utilities and service providers to the wind energy industry. CanWEA's goal is to see 10,000 MW of wind energy capacity either contracted on installed in Canada by 2010.

For further information: Sean Whittaker, Policy Director, (800)
922-6932, cel: (613) 884-683, seanwhittaker@canwea.ca; www.canwea.ca