Editor:
Canada should shift its environmental policy from imposing high carbon taxes to providing low-cost green energy globally. Canada contributes less than two per cent to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; eliminating these would barely impact global warming, major storms, wildfires, or heat domes. Climate change is a global issue, not confined to national boundaries.
The accessibility to low-cost energy has been pivotal for improving living standards since the Stone Age. Current policies increasing energy costs by taxing GHG emissions are counterproductive, leading to lower GDP per capita and deteriorating living standards in Canada.
Rather than combating ineffective policies, Canada should focus on supplying increasing energy demands, especially with growing cloud computing and AI processing needs. This presents a significant opportunity for Canada to provide energy cost-effectively and eco-friendly, driving global innovation and reducing GHG dependency.
Canada has major advantages in taking such a leadership role: proximity to major energy markets, abundant resources, and a skilled workforce. The policy should encompass increasing natural gas production, developing carbon capture and hydrogen fuels, and, crucially, nuclear power.
The plan should be multi-dimensional, involving liquified natural gas exports, pipelines for safe gas and oil delivery, and reducing oil dependence on the Middle East. Emphasis should be on simplifying and accelerating regulatory frameworks, partnering with provinces and First Nations, and not just building pipelines, but large power plants, nuclear facilities, and a smart power grid.
Continued development of renewables alongside gas and nuclear plants will ensure reliable power. Canada should aim to be a leading provider of reliable, low-cost energy, developing oil and gas reserves, and mining for uranium and cobalt.
A positive narrative for Canada involves being a green energy purveyor and building massive data centres alongside power plants. The forecasted power needs for AI are substantial, with estimates suggesting AI data centre power usage could reach 100 terawatt-hours per year by 2030.
Investments in this sector are future-proof. Canada, home to leading AI scientists and institutions, can become a hub for AI power and research and development investments. Ensuring competitively priced energy for domestic consumption through rebates can create a business-friendly environment.
In the information age, as we build out nuclear capacity and increase gas-powered production, supporting our energy industry becomes crucial. Instead of a carbon tax, embracing global clean power and innovation can elevate living standards.
Streamlining the regulatory environment and providing long-term legislative clarity will foster progress. Canada, in collaboration with provincial authorities and First Nations, can leverage this opportunity to lead globally, benefiting both the economy and the environment.
Bruce Eidsvik,
Canmore
