ENVIRONMENT

Renewable Energy
Good for the Environment and Good for People

The need for renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, tidal and geo-thermal power to play an increased role in providing Canadian’s energy is something just about everyone can agree to. The four main political parties all call, in varying degrees and in varying ways, for expanding renewable energy in Canada. Faced with the challenges of finite resources globally and climate change, harnessing this energy should be matched with significant conservation, reduced consumption and investment in greatly improving energy efficiency (be it transmission lines, homes or industrial plants) for a sustainable energy future.

It is good to see the call for more renewable energy factoring into election discussions and debates. It is also good to know, according to the David Suzuki Foundation, that wind and solar are the fastest growing forms of energy in the world. If renewable energy is to play a greater role – which undoubtedly, it must – how do we envision this unfolding? Corporations such as Shell and British Petroleum have a clear vision for renewable energy that pairs environmental sustainability and renewable energy with corporate profit. Should we share this vision?

Or should we call for an alternative vision? One where renewable energy is publicly-owned and delivered. Where “green jobs” are not only good for the environment, but good for people.

Having the supply of renewable energy being on a for-profit basis emphasizing market-based values has risks. When profit becomes a guiding motive, meeting people’s needs becomes secondary. When the electricity sector in Alberta was deregulated, the price of electricity rose more than 500 per cent in a five month period. There is also the question of trade. The market offers no guarantees that locally produced energy from renewable resources meets local needs. If the current path of energy integration with the U.S. is taken as an indication of how privatized renewable energy sectors may pan out, then many of the same concerns in ensuring Canadian’s secure energy supplies (because energy supply is left to the whims of the market and corporations) may continue. More public control and influence in how our energy resources are used must be part of Canada’s energy future.

Without a doubt, transitioning to less harmful energy alternatives will be a serious undertaking and will come at a high cost. We are faced with a “pay now or pay later” situation. Let’s get back to our roots. Wouldn’t the not for profit management and delivery of such an important service, guided by public interest, be best suited? In fact, renewable energy is aptly suited for production that prioritizes local needs including social management such as co-operatives, member and municipally owned projects. The safeguard of ensuring that green jobs be union jobs with public sector infrastructure, as outlined by the Canadian Labour Congress, is a good one. Opportunities are present. Take, for example, the call of four CUPE locals representing Hydro Québec workers challenging the recent government decision to hand wind power production contracts to private corporations.

Our leaders and elected representatives would do well to consider the future of energy provision in Canada including what model can best meet environmental and social goals.

© The Council of Canadians - Andrea Harden-Donahue