ECC Joins EHRC and CanREA in Workforce Alliance
Video of Minister Hajdu’s Announcement
Energy and Electricity Workforce Alliance launches
NEWS RELEASE | EMBARGOED UNTIL SEPT. 2, 2026, AT 1 PM ET
EHRC, Energy Council of Canada and the Canadian Renewable Energy Association unite to strengthen workforce capacity across Canada’s evolving energy and electricity sectors
Sept. 2, 2026 | Ottawa, ON – Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC), the Energy Council of Canada and the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) today announced the launch of the Energy and Electricity Workforce Alliance, a national initiative to ensure Canada has the skilled workers needed to build energy infrastructure, support major projects, meet growing demand across energy systems and advance the country’s broader economic agenda.
The Alliance is one of six sector workforce alliances announced by the federal government to address pressing labour market challenges across industries of strategic and economic importance. Its creation underscores the critical role energy plays in the country’s future. The announcement was made in Ottawa in partnership with the Government of Canada.
Canada’s energy system—spanning conventional oil and gas, electricity and renewable technologies—is entering a period of rapid growth and transformation. Rising global demand, expanding domestic infrastructure, and increasing integration of new technologies are creating significant opportunities throughout the sector.
At the same time, workforce pressures are intensifying across the energy sector. Growing electricity demand, expanding export opportunities, regional labour market constraints, and increasing competition for skilled workers are straining employers and training systems. Critical occupations—from powerline technicians to mechanical engineers—remain chronically understaffed and difficult to fill. As generation, transmission, grid modernization, LNG and nuclear projects advance across the country, Canada will need stronger workforce planning and training capacity to ensure the right skills are available when and where they are needed.
Energy is now Canada’s largest export sector, representing approximately a quarter of all exports. In 2024, the sector contributed $232 billion to GDP and employed 316,200 workers. As Canada looks to double the size of its grid by 2050 and become an energy supplier of choice to the world, workforce capacity will be a critical constraint. The sector will need to attract, train, and retain talent across the full energy value chain, including conventional energy, electricity, renewables, nuclear and emerging technologies.
The Energy and Electricity Workforce Alliance will bring together employers, unions, educational institutions, industry associations, Indigenous partners and under-represented groups in the labour market to deliver coordinated, industry-led solutions to these workforce pressures. Priority areas include accelerating reskilling and upskilling pathways, improving labour mobility across regions, aligning training with emerging technology needs and expanding workforce participation from underrepresented groups. The Alliance will ensure these efforts are aligned across national, regional and local priorities.
EHRC will serve as the lead delivery organization for the Alliance, drawing on its national network and track record in electricity sector workforce development. The Energy Council of Canada and CanREA will play key supporting roles in convening industry leaders from both conventional resources and renewables across the entire energy ecosystem.
Quotes
“Our energy and electricity sector is only as strong as the people who run it. Through this Alliance, we are bringing industry, labour and training providers together to deliver the exact skills workers need and employers are searching for. Together with our partners, we are providing clean and reliable power, strengthening communities and building an economy where every worker has a place.”
– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
“Canada cannot build the economy of the future without the workers to power it. From grid modernization to new clean generation, the projects that will define our energy security and economic independence depend on having skilled tradespeople, engineers and technicians ready to do the work. The Energy and Electricity Workforce Alliance brings together the right partners—industry, labour, educators and Indigenous communities—to make sure Canadians are first in line for the jobs this transformation will create.”
– Michelle Branigan, CEO, EHRC
“Canada’s energy strength is built on its resource endowment and the expertise of a highly skilled workforce across the sector. From conventional energy to emerging technologies, Canadian energy companies play an important role in providing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy choices while adapting to changing markets, new technologies and major project demands. Energy Council of Canada is pleased to be a part of the Energy and Electricity Workforce Alliance to help ensure Canada can anticipate workforce challenges, identify practical solutions and take timely action to support the people and skills needed for sector’s continued success.”
– Howard Shearer, Chair, Energy Council of Canada
“Electricity demand in Canada is set to grow rapidly as industries electrify and the economy digitizes. Wind, solar and energy storage are the fastest and most affordable ways to meet that demand while modernizing the grid. However, none of this happens without skilled workers. That’s why CanREA is proud to work with partners in the Energy and Electricity Workforce Alliance to help build the workforce Canada needs.”
– Vittoria Bellissimo, President and CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association
About the Energy and Electricity Alliance
The Energy and Electricity Workforce Alliance is a national collaborative initiative that brings together employers, unions, educational institutions, industry associations, Indigenous partners and other stakeholders to identify and address workforce challenges facing Canada’s energy and electricity sector through industry-led solutions to ensure Canada’s ability to build major projects and ensure economic growth.
About EHRC
Electricity Human Resources Canada is the national, not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the Canadian electricity sector has a safety-focused, highly skilled and inclusive workforce. EHRC works with employers, labour, educators and governments to develop solutions to workforce challenges and promote career opportunities in electricity and renewable energy. To learn more, visit ehrc.ca.
About the Energy Council of Canada
The Energy Council of Canada is a non-partisan, non-lobbying, resource and technology neutral organization. We bring together diverse members from energy industries, sectoral associations and governments from across Canada. As a neutral convener, we foster dialogue, strategic thinking, collaboration and action to support an affordable, stable and environmentally sound Canadian energy sector. We advocate Canadian energy with North American and international audiences. To learn more, visit energy.ca.
About the Canadian Renewable Energy Association
The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through policy advocacy and stakeholder engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how wind energy, solar energy and energy storage can decarbonize and modernize Canada’s electricity systems quickly and affordably, visit renewablesassociation.ca.
Contact
For media enquiries, please contact:
Ryan Baan (he/him)
Marketing and Communications Manager
EHRC
communications@ehrc.ca
613-235-5540, ext. 255
Version anglaise ci-dessus.
COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE | NE PAS COMMUNIQUER AVANT LE 2 SEPT. 2026, 13 H (HE)
Lancement de l’alliance pour la main-d’œuvre de l’énergie et de l’électricité afin de consolider le statut de superpuissance énergétique du Canada
RHIEC, le Conseil canadien de l’énergie et l’Association canadienne de l’énergie renouvelable s’unissent pour renforcer les capacités de la main-d’œuvre dans les secteurs en pleine évolution de l’énergie et de l’électricité au Canada
2 septembre 2026 | Ottawa (Ontario) – Ressources humaines, industrie électrique du Canada (RHIEC), le Conseil canadien de l’énergie et l’Association canadienne de l’énergie renouvelable (CanREA) ont annoncé aujourd’hui le lancement de l’alliance pour la main-d’œuvre de l’énergie et de l’électricité, une initiative nationale visant à garantir que le Canada dispose des travailleur·euse·s qualifié·e·s nécessaires pour construire des infrastructures énergétiques, appuyer des projets d’envergure, répondre à la demande croissante dans l’ensemble des systèmes énergétiques et faire progresser le programme économique global du pays.
Cette alliance est l’une des six alliances sectorielles pour la main-d’œuvre annoncées par le gouvernement fédéral pour relever les défis pressants du marché du travail dans les secteurs d’importance stratégique et économique. Sa création souligne le rôle crucial que joue l’énergie dans l’avenir du pays. L’annonce a été faite à Ottawa, en partenariat avec le gouvernement du Canada.
Le système énergétique canadien – qui couvre aussi bien les sources d’énergie classiques, comme le pétrole et le gaz que l’électricité et les technologies renouvelables – entre dans une période de croissance rapide et de profonde transformation. La hausse de la demande mondiale, le développement des infrastructures nationales et l’intégration croissante des nouvelles technologies ouvrent d’importantes perspectives dans l’ensemble du secteur.
Parallèlement, les pressions sur la main-d’œuvre s’intensifient dans l’ensemble du secteur de l’énergie. La demande croissante en électricité, l’expansion des débouchés à l’exportation, les contraintes du marché du travail régional et la concurrence grandissante pour les travailleur·euse·s qualifié·e·s mettent à rude épreuve les employeur·euse·s et les systèmes de formation. Les postes essentiels – qu’il s’agisse de technicien·ne·s en lignes électriques ou d’ingénieur·e·s mécanicien·ne·s – souffrent toujours d’une pénurie chronique de main-d’œuvre et sont difficiles à pourvoir. Alors que les projets de production et de transport d’énergie, de modernisation du réseau, de GNL et d’énergie nucléaire progressent partout au pays, le Canada devra renforcer la planification de sa main-d’œuvre et sa capacité de formation afin que les compétences nécessaires soient disponibles au bon moment et au bon endroit.
Le secteur de l’énergie est désormais le premier secteur d’exportation du Canada, représentant environ le quart de l’ensemble des exportations. En 2024, ce secteur a contribué à hauteur de 232 milliards de dollars au PIB et employait 316 200 travailleur·euse·s. Alors que le Canada envisage de doubler l’infrastructure de ses réseaux électriques d’ici 2050 et de devenir un fournisseur d’énergie de choix à l’échelle mondiale, la capacité de la main-d’œuvre constituera un obstacle majeur. Le secteur devra attirer, former et retenir les talents tout au long de la chaîne de valeur énergétique, y compris dans les domaines de l’énergie classique, de l’électricité, des énergies renouvelables, du nucléaire et des technologies émergentes.
L’alliance pour la main-d’œuvre de l’énergie et de l’électricité réunira des employeur·euse·s, des syndicats, des établissements d’enseignement, des associations d’industries, des partenaires autochtones et des groupes sous-représentés sur le marché du travail afin de proposer des solutions coordonnées, menées par l’industrie, pour répondre à ces pressions sur la main-d’œuvre. Parmi les domaines prioritaires, on peut citer l’accélération des parcours de reconversion et de perfectionnement professionnels, l’amélioration de la mobilité de la main-d’œuvre entre les régions, l’adaptation de la formation aux besoins liés aux technologies émergentes et l’augmentation de la participation au marché du travail des groupes sous-représentés. L’alliance veillera à ce que ces efforts s’inscrivent dans le cadre des priorités nationales, régionales et locales.
RHIEC agira à titre d’organisme responsable de la mise en œuvre de l’alliance, en s’appuyant sur son réseau national et son expérience avérée en matière de développement de la main-d’œuvre dans le secteur de l’électricité. Le Conseil canadien de l’énergie et la CanREA joueront un rôle clé en réunissant les dirigeant·e·s de l’industrie, tant du secteur des ressources classiques que de celui des énergies renouvelables, à travers l’ensemble de l’écosystème énergétique.
Citations
« La force de notre secteur de l’énergie et de l’électricité repose entièrement sur les personnes qui le dirigent. Grâce à cette alliance, nous réunissons les représentant·e·s de l’industrie, des syndicats et des organismes de formation afin d’offrir les compétences précises dont les travailleur·euse·s ont besoin et que les entreprises recherchent. En collaboration avec nos partenaires, nous fournissons une énergie propre et fiable, nous renforçons les collectivités et nous bâtissons une économie où chaque travailleur et chaque travailleuse a sa place. »
– L’honorable Patty Hajdu, ministre de l’Emploi et des Familles et ministre responsable de l’Agence fédérale de développement économique pour le Nord de l’Ontario
« Le Canada ne peut bâtir l’économie de demain sans les travailleur·euse·s qui en sont le moteur. De la modernisation du réseau électrique aux nouvelles installations de production d’énergie propre, les projets qui détermineront notre sécurité énergétique et notre autonomie économique dépendent de la présence d’artisan·e·s, d’ingénieur·e·s et de technicien·ne·s qualifié·e·s, prêt·e·s à se mettre au travail. L’alliance pour la main-d’œuvre de l’énergie et de l’électricité rassemble les bons partenaires – l’industrie, les syndicats, les éducateur·rice·s et les communautés autochtones – afin de s’assurer que les Canadien·ne·s bénéficient en priorité des emplois résultant de cette transformation. »
– Michelle Branigan, directrice générale, RHIEC
« La force du Canada dans le domaine de l’énergie repose sur ses ressources naturelles et sur l’expertise d’une main-d’œuvre hautement qualifiée dans l’ensemble du secteur. Qu’il s’agisse des énergies classiques ou des technologies émergentes, les entreprises énergétiques canadiennes jouent un rôle important en offrant des options énergétiques fiables, abordables et durables, tout en s’adaptant à l’évolution des marchés, aux nouvelles technologies et aux exigences liées aux grands projets. Le Conseil canadien de l’énergie est heureux de faire partie de l’alliance pour la main-d’œuvre de l’énergie et de l’électricité afin de contribuer à ce que le Canada puisse anticiper les défis liés à la main-d’œuvre, trouver des solutions concrètes et prendre des mesures en temps opportun pour soutenir les personnes et les compétences nécessaires à la réussite continue du secteur. »
– Howard Shearer, président, Conseil canadien de l’énergie
« La demande d’électricité au Canada est appelée à augmenter rapidement avec l’électrification des industries et la numérisation de l’économie. L’énergie éolienne, l’énergie solaire et le stockage de l’énergie constituent les moyens les plus rapides et les plus abordables de répondre à cette demande tout en modernisant le réseau. Cependant, rien de tout cela ne serait possible sans des travailleur·euse·s qualifié·e·s. C’est pourquoi la CanREA est fière de collaborer avec ses partenaires de l’alliance pour la main-d’œuvre de l’énergie et de l’électricité afin de contribuer à former la main-d’œuvre dont le Canada a besoin. »
– Vittoria Bellissimo, présidente et cheffe de la direction, Association canadienne de l’énergie renouvelable
À propos de l’alliance de l’énergie et de l’électricité
L’alliance pour la main-d’œuvre de l’énergie et de l’électricité est une initiative nationale de collaboration qui rassemble des entreprises, des syndicats, des établissements d’enseignement, des associations d’industries, des partenaires autochtones et d’autres parties prenantes afin d’identifier et de relever les défis liés à la main-d’œuvre auxquels fait face le secteur canadien de l’énergie et de l’électricité, grâce à des solutions proposées par l’industrie, dans le but de garantir la capacité du Canada à réaliser des projets d’envergure et d’assurer la croissance économique.
À propos de RHIEC
Ressources humaines, industrie électrique du Canada est l’organisme à but non lucratif dont la mission est de veiller à ce que le secteur canadien de l’électricité dispose d’une main-d’œuvre axée sur la sécurité, hautement qualifiée et inclusive. RHIEC travaille avec les employeurs, les syndicats, les établissements d’enseignement et les gouvernements afin de développer des solutions pour répondre aux défis en matière de main-d’œuvre et promouvoir des possibilités de carrière au sein du secteur de l’électricité et des énergies renouvelables. Pour en savoir plus, visiter rhiec.ca.
À propos du Conseil de l’énergie du Canada
Impartial et non lobbyiste, le Conseil de l’énergie du Canada maintient une neutralité totale envers les ressources et les technologies énergétiques. En réunissant les industries, les associations et les gouvernements, il offre une plateforme de dialogue stratégique et de collaboration. Sa mission : soutenir un secteur énergétique canadien abordable, stable et durable, tout en faisant rayonner l’énergie canadienne en Amérique du Nord à l’international. Informez-vous sur energy.ca.
À propos de l’Association canadienne de l’énergie renouvelable
L’Association canadienne de l’énergie renouvelable (CanREA) est la voix des solutions d’énergies éolienne et solaire et de stockage d’énergie qui façonnent l’avenir énergétique du Canada. Nous nous employons à créer les conditions favorables à l’établissement d’un système énergétique moderne en mobilisant les parties prenantes et en faisant la promotion de politiques en ce sens. Issus de divers horizons, nos membres sont parfaitement en mesure d’offrir des solutions propres, abordables, fiables, flexibles et évolutives pour combler les besoins énergétiques du Canada. Pour connaitre comment l’énergie éolienne, l’énergie solaire et le stockage d’énergie peuvent contribuer à décarboner et moderniser les systèmes électriques du Canada rapidement et à faible coût, informez-vous sur associationrenouvelable.ca.
Coordonnées
Les demandes des médias doivent être adressées à :
Ryan Baan (il/lui)
Gestionnaire du marketing et des communications
RHIEC
communications@ehrc.ca
613 235-5540, poste 255
Canadian Nuclear Association
Join industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and energy experts on April 28–30, 2026, at the Rogers Centre in Ottawa for CNA2026: Power and Purpose.
Events
Vancouver BC - 6 February 2025
URGENT APPEAL FOR UKRAINE
The energy ministers of Canada and Ukraine have issued an urgent appeal for support in restoring Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in light of renewed attacks by Russia. The two countries have an agreement that contemplates both government and industry involvement in efforts to support Ukraine.
The most effective ways to support the effort are through a financial contribution or the provision of replacement equipment compatible with Ukrainian standards. The Ukraine Energy Support Fund is the preferred channel for financial support. It is reliable, transparent, and effective. The Energy Community manages the Fund. Donors can direct the funds to areas of interest to them or to companies that Ukraine deems eligible, otherwise, the funds will be directed to the most urgent needs. Donors may also request public acknowledgement of their contribution.
The Ukraine Ministry of Energy maintains an “evergreen” list of energy equipment necessary. That list, as well as other important documents, can be reached through the links below. Energy Community and Energize Ukraine manage the shipping logistics for equipment donated from Canada.
Please spread the word to your colleagues about this appeal. If you have questions, please contact Anneta Lytvynenko of NRCan’s Ukraine Taskforce. She can be reached at anneta.lytvynenko@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca.
ALBERTA TO HOST INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE
From October 20th to 24th Emissions Reduction Alberta will host the 17th Greenhouse Gas Control Technologies Conference in Calgary. The meetings are a part of the IEA Greenhouse Gas R&D Programme and are held every 2 years. The IEA Programme funds research into the development and deployment of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.
This Fall’s meeting will be the world’s leading conference on CCUS. For more information, follow the links below.
The Canadian Hydrogen Association presents the 2024 version of its Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Conference and Expo, hy-fcell 2024. The event opens at the Vancouver Convention Centre. The event opens with a welcome reception Monday, 17 June from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm (PDT). The Expo and the Conference will take place over Tuesday and Wednesday the 18th and 19th of June.
The Conference will feature 17 session over the two days covering a broad range of issues in the industry. Speakers from around the world will participate. The speakers list includes 90 individuals, including The Hon. Jonathon Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Canada.
ECC PRESIDENT HOSTED AI PANEL AT GLOBAL ENERGY SHOW 2024
On 13 June, ECC President, Jacob Irving, moderated a panel discussion of how to leverage AI for organizational transformation at the Global Energy Show 2024 in Calgary. Among the panelists was Chris Barry, President of ECC member Microsoft Canada.
The 2024 Global Energy Show Strategic Conference was designed to bring critical knowledge and insights to bear on the challenges of transformation in energy.
A technical conference ran in parallel. The Global Energy Show Canada Technical Conference served as a platform for technical experts to exchange information on the technologies, processes, and innovations shaping the energy landscape.
The Show also included an exhibition, which was the largest B2B exhibition and conference engaging with industry buyers and sellers, stakeholders and partners, CEOs and young professionals together to share knowledge and fuel innovation.
Next year, the Global Energy Show 2025 will return to the BMO Centre at Stampede Park in Calgary from 10 – 12 June 2025.
UNITED STATES ENERGY ASSOCIATION GENERAL MEETING AND POLICY FORUM
The Energy Council of Canada’s counterpart in the US held its annual General Meeting and Policy Forum. The event was open to all interested parties and took place on Thursday, 30 May in Washington DC. Twelve senior energy industry and government leaders participated.
YEPN HOLDS Ist WEBINAR OF 2024
On May 8 the Young Energy Professionals Network held a successful first webinar of the year. The event was well-attended, with almost 80 participants online to hear the discussion.
Colin Turner (CGA) of the YEPN hosted the conversation. Panelists Chief Billy Morin (Axxcelus Capital Advisory), Graham Clodge (Metergy Solutions), and Alex Stoiko (Creative Energy) discussed their organizations’ participation in an evolving energy sector.
You can find the entire discussion by clicking the link below.
THIRD ANNUAL CANADA ENERGY UPDATE TAKES PLACE IN OTTAWA ON 31 JANUARY
The Energy Council of Canada held its third annual Canada Energy Update on Wednesday, 31 January at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. This year, for the first time, the Update combined an online event with an in-person gathering. Of the 12 invited speakers, three couldn’t come to Ottawa. They spoke to the audience via a livestream Zoom call. The audience in Ottawa comprised industry representatives, government officials, members of the legal community, consultants, and others with a strong interest in energy issues. Close to 300 people registered to follow the discussion on line.
Speakers combined a brief review of the recent history in their respective fields with a view of the future. The presentations covered the United States Energy Association, key Canadian energy industry associations, as well as a university energy research institute, a major supplier of goods and services to the sector, and two major industrial energy consumers.
Below, you will find buttons linking to a Trailer, with brief excerpts from the conference, and the complete Event Video.
Presenters
- Mark Menezes, United States Energy Association
- Monica Gattinger, Institute for Science, Society, and Policy (University of Ottawa)
- Ivette Vera-Perez, Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association
- Francis Bradley, Electricity Canada
- Johanne Senécal, Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers
- Christopher Gully, Canadian Nuclear Association
- Michelle Branigan, Electricity Human Resources Canada
- Paul Cheliak, Canadian Gas Association
- Guy Lonechild, First Nations Power Authority
- Jamie Dinsmore, Microsoft
- Chris Smillie, Siemens Energy Canada
- Scott MacKenzie, Toyota Canada
Event Sponsors
CAPP LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE FEATURING AUTHORITATIVE INDUSTRY DATA CENTRE
Energy Council of Canada member CAPP (Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers) has launched a new website. In addition to the features on its original site, the new version includes a significant addition to the information base on Canada’s oil and gas industry. Called the CAPP Data Centre, it is a comprehensive and authoritative source of information on the oil and gas industry in Canada.
The data are organized into 9 subject areas:
- production
- economic impact
- export infrastructure
- GHG emissions
- refining
- natural gas markets
- oil markets
- domestic consumption
- oil and natural gas exports
CAPP states that this means their website is now poised to be the go-to online resource for verified data and information regarding Canada’s upstream oil and natural gas sector. This reflects their commitment to transparency, education, and the provision to Canadians of solid, fact-based information about the industry.
3rd ANNUAL CANADA ENERGY UPDATE 31 JANUARY - OTTAWA
On Wednesday, 31 January, the Energy Council of Canada held the 2024 version of Canada Energy Update at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. This year the conference brought together not only the leaders of national energy industry associations, but also speakers from academic energy research, energy utilities, the service and supply industry, major energy consumers, and manufacturers. A featured speaker was Mark Menezes, the newly appointed President & CEO of the United States Energy Association. In addition to the in person audience, the proceedings were followed on line. Over 300 people registered for the live feed.
A number of organizations helped make the event possible through their sponsorships:
- Toyota (Gold Sponsor)
- Electricity Canada (Silver Sponsor)
- Siemens Energy (Silver Sponsor)
- First Nation Power Authority (Bronze Sponsor)
- 360Energy (Bronze Sponsor)
To view the entire afternoon session, click the button below.
JACOB IRVING DELIVERS CLOSING ADDRESS AT USEA ANNUAL EVENT
On 31 January 2024, ECC President Jacob Irving spoke at the United States Energy Association’s annual State of the Energy Industry Forum in Washington DC. He had been invited by the USEA’s new president Mark Menezes to provide the closing address. The Forum brings together the heads of the major energy industry associations in the US to discuss the recent developments in their industries and to offer their thoughts on issues they will face in the future.
ECC President Irving Appears before House Standing Committee on
Foreign Affairs and International Development
The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE) invited the Energy Council of Canada to provide a witness for its session on Monday, 20 November 2023. President Jacob Irving appeared before the Committee.
The topic under discussion was the Situation at the Russia-Ukraine Border and Implications for Peace and Security. In this session, the Committee was interested in gathering expert views on food security and energy security. Mr. Irving provided an introduction to the ECC and spent some time outlining the North American and International Outreach (NAIO) program. He explained that its purpose is to inform and raise awareness among other nations of Canada’s energy resources and expertise in the sector. When asked about the limited natural gas exports to counter the restrictions on Russian exports to Ukraine, he explained that Canadian gas is exported to the US at the moment and finds its way to Ukraine through the US. He noted that a major LNG export facility was being developed in British Columbia (LNG Canada) and that it will provide useful information to assess the viability of potential future projects.
ECC Joins Panel at Ottawa Conference of the 3 Seas Initiative
At the invitation of the Polish Embassy, President Irving appeared on a panel on 21 November 2023 to discuss opportunities for Canada through eastern Europe’s 3 Seas Initiative (the 3 Seas refer to the Baltic, Black, and Adriatic seas). The project is designed to improve links among 12 countries of eastern Europe. These include digital, energy, and transportation connections.
The countries comprising the Initiative describe their mission this way:
The Three Seas initiative aims to promote cooperation, first and foremost, for the development of infrastructure in the energy, transport, and digital sectors. It targets new investments, economic growth, and energy security.
The Initiative began in 2015. Now, with the invasion of Ukraine, the countries involved in the program are also working to provide support to that country to assist in reconstruction.
The title of the Conference was The Three Seas Initiative: An Opportunity for Canada. Mr. Irving was on the energy panel and discussed Canada’s situation with respect to exporting natural gas to Europe, which would re-build a degree of energy security for the countries involved in the 3 Seas Initiative.
ECC President Irving Gives Keynote Address at US-Canada Executive Energy Conference
Each year the New England – Canada Business Council (NECBC) holds an Executive Energy Conference. The Council’s mandate is to advance business, political, and cultural rel
ationships between Canada and the United States and to help members grow their cross-border professional networks.
Given the importance of energy trade between Canada and the northeast United States, the NECBC has sponsored an energy conference each year since 1981 in Boston. This year’s (November 1 -2, 2023) conference was supplemented by an Electrification Showcase by companies from Quebec. They displayed the variety of electrification technologies that they are developing in the province.
The conference concluded with a keynote address by ECC President Jacob Irving.
ECC PARTICIPATES IN MUNICIPAL ENERGY SYMPOSIUM
November Jacob Irving was invited to participate on behalf of the Energy Council of Canada in a Municipal Energy Symposium. The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (OMA) and its related organization, Local Authority Services (LAS), sponsored the event in Toronto. The gathering gives municipalities in the province the opportunity to showcase and share the ways in which they are dealing with issues of energy generation, consumption and demand.
ELECTRICITY HUMAN RESOURCES CANADA RELEASES INDUSTRY SURVEY REPORT
On 25 October 2023 Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) released Electricity in Demand: Labour Market Insights. The report presents the results of an industry survey conducted over the summer.
Some highlights of the report:
- Employment growth in the electricity industry since 2018 has been 12% versus 7% in Canada as a whole.
- There has been a 579% increase in the demand for wind turbine technologists, 259% in photovoltaic professionals, and 249% growth in electric vehicle employment demand.
- 87% of those who responded to the question of what they expected in the future considered the outlook “good” or “very strong”.
- Up to 2028 the cumulative demand for labour is expected to be roughly 27,000 employees, made up of 12,000 new positions and 15,000 to replace retirees.
- EHRC recommends the development and execution of a comprehensive human resources strategy and action plan.
MS. NANCY C. SOUTHERN - CANADIAN ENERGY PERSON OF THE YEAR 2023
Thursday evening, 28 September, industry and government leaders came together to honour Nancy C. Southern, Chair and CEO of ATCO Ltd. and Canadian Utilities Ltd. She received the Canadian Energy Person of the Year Award (CEPY) for 2023, sponsored by the Energy Council of Canada.
The dinner and award ceremony, held at the Calgary Petroleum Club, brought together over 200 members of the energy sector to acknowledge Ms. Southern’s distinguished career leading a major Canadian energy company. The Premier of Alberta, Ms. Danielle Smith, spoke of Ms. Southern’s contribution to industry, to Alberta, and to the welfare of Indigenous peoples, as well her support for the expansion of opportunities for women in the sector.
ECC Invited to Celebration of 50 years of Diplomatic Relations between Canada and Vietnam
To mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Vietnam, the Consulate General of Canada in Ho Chi Minh City and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam hosted a celebratory event at Vietnam’s Independence Palace in the evening of Monday, August 21st, 2023. The Energy Council of Canada President Jacob Irving attended the event as an invited speaker at the request of the Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service in Vietnam.
Vietnam is currently re-orienting its energy sector. The government foresees strong GDP growth – in the range of 6.5% to 7.5% per year – to 2050. At the same time, Vietnam is aiming for a low-GHG emissions sector. Officials are looking to Canada for advice, support, and services, given our strong, diversified sector. CCUS, SMRs, electricity transmission systems are only a few of the areas where Canada and Vietnam can work together.
ECC HOSTS MEETING OF SENIOR CANADIAN OFFICIALS AND PRIME MINISTER OF POLAND
The full list of distinguished guests: Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, Premier Doug Ford, Mr. Waldemar Buda (Polish Minister for Development and Technology), Minister Wilkinson, Mayor Foster, Mr. John Henry (Durham Regional Chair and CEO), Ms. Natalia Kusendova (MPP for Mississauga Centre).
On Friday, 2 June the ECC hosted a meeting with senior officials from the federal government, government of Ontario, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland, Mr. Mateusz Morawiecki, and Mr. Waldemar Buda, Poland’s Minister for Development and Technology. The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, and the Right Honourable Jon Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources Canada, and Mayor Adrian Foster of Clarington, the host municipality, participated in the event, held at Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington Nuclear Generating facility.
ECC President, Jacob Irving, welcomed the distinguished guests. He was followed by the Prime Minister, the Premier, and Minister Wilkinson. Mr. Irving then led a roundtable discussion on energy among the senior officials and invited guests from the various parts of the energy sector.
Participants in the discussion were drawn from across the energy sector. In addition to Canada’s nuclear capabilities and its groundbreaking work in small modular nuclear reactors, the country’s strengths in oil, natural gas, energy infrastructure, wind, and other renewables were touched on. All parties agreed on the opportunities and the value of cooperation between the two countries to advance energy security and to reduce GHG emissions. ECC Chair Howard Shearer thanked the participants and closed the proceedings.
NOTE: Following an election in October 2023, the Polish Parliament chose a new government, to be led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
JACOB IRVING CHAIRS PANEL ON GREEN HYDROGEN AT IEFA MONTREAL CONFERENCE
Jacob Irving hosted a panel entitled Unlocking the Potential of Green Hydrogen at the conference of the International Economic Forum of the Americas (IEFA) in Montreal. The conference is an annual event that attracts decision makers from around the world. These include political leaders, academics, economists, and executives from industry.
ECC PRESIDENT ADDRESSES GLOBAL AFFAIRS CANADA HEADS OF MISSION
On 8 June, ECC President Jacob Irving addressed Global Affairs Canada’s Heads of Mission (HOM). The event was part of a preparation conference for new and current HOM prior to their return to their external postings. HOM for Canadian embassies, high commissions, and permanent missions include ambassadors and high commissioners. For Canadian consulates overseas the HOM is the consul general.
INTERNATIONAL HYDROGEN AND FUEL CELL EVENT | JOINT MEETING OF ECC AND CHFCA BOARDS
The International Hydrogen and Fuel Cell conference and exhibition (@hy_fcell) was held in Vancouver from 5 June to 7 June. ECC Board members were in Vancouver for the Council’s Spring Board Meeting (7 June). They had the opportunity, thanks to the Canadian Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association (CHFCA), to visit the event. Subsequently, the members of both boards held a joint session prior to each organization’s board meeting.
hy-fcell Canada 2024 will also be held in Vancouver in mid-June of next year.
YEPN HOLDS FIRST NETWORKING EVENT FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
ECC President speaks at Enlit Africa energy conference in Cape Town
As part of Energy Council of Canada’s international outreach program (NAIO) President Jacob Irving participated in the Enlit Africa conference in Cape Town, South Africa. The event brought together energy industry representatives, government regulators and policy makers, utilities, the finance community, service and supply companies, and many others who have an interest in energy in Africa.
The Canadian High Commissioner in South Africa, through the Trade Commissioner Service at Global Affairs Canada, asked ECC to participate in the event.
ECC sponsored the Women in Energy breakfast on 17 May. Mr. Irving delivered introductory remarks about Canadian energy and recognized several Canadian companies with operations in Africa whose representatives attended.
The following day he moderated a panel on coal generation of electricity, where he outlined the efforts by Canadian governments and members of the industry to withdraw coal-fired facilities and replace them with lower, or zero, emission forms of generation.
South Africa’s public broadcaster, SABC, featured a story on the breakfast event, as did ESI Africa, the continent’s leading power and energy journal.
SENIOR ECC EXECUTIVES HELP DELIVER ENERGY MASTERCLASS IN JAMAICA
Thursday, 30 March 2023
ECC Chair Howard Shearer and CEO Jacob Irving took part in a Policy and Regulatory Masterclass entitled The Climate Smart Approach. The event was held in Kingston, Jamaica on Thursday, 30 March 2023.
The event was the first in-person meeting in the North American and International Outreach (NAIO) program to be held outside continental North America and was arranged and supported by the Canadian High Commission in Jamaica.
The presentation combined introductory elements with a focus on energy regulation, particularly in the electricity sector.
Watch a recording of the discussion by clicking the button below.
YEPN HOSTS WEBINAR ON CANADIAN HYDROGEN
Thursday, 30 March 2023
The Young Energy Professionals Network presented the latest in its series of panel discussions on Thursday, 30 March 2023. Three speakers from leading players in the hydrogen field spoke about the current state of hydrogen research and development as an emission-free energy source in Canada.
Webinar
ENERGY & ESPRESSO
Tuesday, February 15, 2022 - 12:30 PM EST
Join Matthew and YEPN’s Kevin Tsang as they discuss the business, career pathways, and emerging trends in the nuclear energy industry over an interactive 30-min virtual coffee chat
Webinar
2023 CANADA ENERGY UPDATE
Friday, January 27, 2023 - 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM EST
Canada’s national energy industry associations assemble to look ahead at 2023. A year in which energy markets were affected by events in Europe and global economic developments.
Webinar
2022 CANADA ENERGY UPDATE
Friday, January 21, 2022 - 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM EST
Canada’s national energy industry associations assemble to look ahead at 2022. Don’t miss a high-powered overview of energy policy and priorities for this year. Held in coordination with the United States Energy Association (USEA) State of the Energy Industry Forum.
Webinar
2022 STATE OF THE ENERGY INDUSTRY FORUM
Thursday, January 20, 2022 - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST
Join us for one of the most highly anticipated events of the industry! Chief executives from nearly every major energy trade associations will convene to share public policy objectives and priorities for the year.
Webinar
What's Working: The Canadian-American Energy Relationship
November 17, 2021 - 1:00 pm to 2:15 pm EST
In this special joint webinar from the United States Energy Association (USEA) and the Energy Council of Canada (ECC), two contemporary energy projects that feature American and Canadian collaboration will be highlighted. Featuring guest speakers from both countries, this webinar will give an overview of the Canadian-American energy relationship and help illustrate that the long-standing partnership is mutually beneficial and positive.