Energy Rates Blog

What are renewable energy programs? 

To start, renewable energy itself comes from energy generators such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy – to name the most popular ones. Renewable energy programs are created federally, provincially, or otherwise to work on a way to better include or slowly make the change from fossil fuels and other such energy sources into renewable ones that we can reuse and help shrink the carbon footprint. 

Emerging renewable energy programs face higher costs and risks, along with regulatory issues that other energy sectors have already established their businesses/systems/regulations and already have the machinery and areas in place. Canada has many renewable power programs starting and upcoming across the country, including Indigenous-run/for Indigenous communities such as the ones listed in our article here. 

How renewable energy programs can help communities

Renewable energy programs in general are helpful for many aspects across the board, including creating little to no greenhouse gas emissions and reducing some types of air pollution. Diversifying energy supply and including green renewable energy diversifies supply, reduces dependence on importing or exporting finite fuels, creates economic development, jobs in manufacturing and otherwise, installations that better help communities and health, and more. 

Programs work with industry key groups and other groups such as the government to encourage efficient renewable energy sources and technologies, such as combined power, heat, and electricity power from green renewable sources. 

A look at the Indigenous energy programs in Canada 

Currently within Canada as of 2023, there are over 197 renewable energy projects associated with Indigenous communities across the country. Few are controlled by Indigenous communities fully or mainly. Renewable energy and clean sources that are naturally derived and produced such as sun/solar, water, and wind are all renewable energy sources that can be replenished at a rate equal to or faster than the rate at which it is being used and consumed. Indigenous engagement in renewable energy projects is important for several factors, including economic development, climate change adaptation and self-determination as well. 

The Cowessess Renewable Energy Storage Facility as an example, is one of the few that are First Nation owned as a renewable energy project and contributes to the economic sustainability of the country, as the facility harnesses energy from wind and solar power as a hybrid facility. The project was first developed by the Cowessess First Nation in 2013 and in partnership with the Saskatchewan Research Council, it provides enough power for 340 homes. SaskPower, the main power authority in Saskatchewan, is contracted to buy electricity from the project for 20 years, with the profits going to Cowessess First Nation. They support Indigenous businesses while training and hiring members of the First Nation to sustain the project as well. 

Located in White River, Ontario, the Pic Mobert First Nation operates two generating stations that were constructed with band members, in partnership with Regional Power Incorporated. Pic Mobert First Nation owns 50% of the Gitchi Animki Hydroelectric Project. The project generates revenue that benefits the community and has been supplying energy to the province of Ontario’s power grid since 2016 – which is an impressive feat. 

Indigenous-led and run renewable energy projects and programs, such as energy-efficient housing and larger scale infrastructures can contribute to climate change adaptation efforts as well as employing First Nations and other Indigenous community help. The ICE (Indigenous Clean Energy Network) states that energy efficiency is a catalyst for a future where clean and renewable energy is embraced and benefits everyone and Indigenous health. Financing the construction of energy-efficient homes and retrofitting older homes across the country to be greener and more efficient is proposed as a crucial component to both climate change adaptation and sustainable development in the long run, reducing harmful energy emissions and facilitating job creation across the board. 

Federal/Provincial Organizations 

In 2021, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources announced that nearly $40.5 million in federal investments would go towards the Clarke Lake Geothermal Development Project, which is a wholly owned and Indigenous-led project that will develop one of the first commercially viable geothermal electricity production facilities in Canada. Being developed in the already existing Clarke Lake gas field in British Columbia, the project will use the mid-grade geothermal heat resources in its reservoir to reduce emissions by displacing fossil fuels and demonstrating the value and benefits of geothermal energy as a viable clean energy source and technology for rural, Indigenous, and northern communities. It will create jobs and other economic opportunities as well for local community members and will provide capacity building and training to workers from other industries to help them transition into the renewable energy sector. 

Electricity will be the primary source of revenue, and although that is the case, additional revenue opportunities could include the sale of heat waste generated by the planet, excess heat could also power other activities in the local industries such as timber drying in the forestry sector and greenhouse food production in the agricultural fields, as well. The federal government is committed to making the country more green-energy friendly by 2030 and a leader in clean power, as outlined in this project and others they have stated. 

The Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program is to improve access to federal funding and resources in Indigenous, rural, and remote communities for clean energy projects across Canada. On April 25^th, 2022, an additional $300 million was announced, available through 2027, to further support and help clean energy projects. To learn more about which projects they are funding and how to apply for funding if you are interested as a project leader, you can do so here on the Government of Canada’s website. 

Even more Federal climate change project information can be found here as well, including many Agriculture-clean projects and Agri-sector projects that benefit the sectors and Canadians. 

• Agricultural Clean Technology Living Labs Program is establishing a strong Canada-wide network of regional collaborations made up of scientists, farmers, and other sectoral stakeholders with the objective to develop, validate, and share the beneficial management practices that best store carbon and mitigate climate change. This has been started since April 2021 and will continue until March 2031. 

• Climate Change Preparedness in the North Program provides support to Indigenous and northern communities and governments to help them adapt to climate change impacts and funding supports projects such as the risk assessments and vulnerability hazards of climate change impacts. Development of hazard maps and adaptation plans and options and implementations of non-structural and structural measures are also included. 

• Similar to the previous programs, the First Nation Adapt Program also provides funding to First Nation communities located below the 60^th Parallel to assess options related to community infrastructure and disaster risks associated with climate change. Funding supports development and adaptation planning. 

• REACHE (Northern Responsible Energy Approach for Community Heat and Electricity Program) funds renewable energy and energy efficiency projects and related capacity building and planning in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik, and Nunatsiavut. 

• The Climate Action and Awareness Fund supports Canadian-made projects that can create middle-class jobs for Canadians that work in science and technology fields, academia, and at the grassroots community level to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions across Canada. It is currently started and will run until 2025. 

• Indigenous Guardians Pilot will invest up to $100 million over five years (from 2021 until 2026) to continue supporting and providing more support for Indigenous rights and responsibilities in protecting and conserving ecosystems, developing and maintaining sustainable economies and continuing the connections between the Canadian landscape and Indigenous cultures. 

• NSCSF (Nature-Smart Climate Solutions Fund) has Indigenous partnerships that will be investing up to $36.9 million over the next ten years from 2021 until 2031 to support Indigenous-led on-the-ground activities focused on conservation, restoration, enhanced ecosystem management and planning, along with capacity building, including research to better help climate change and the environment across Canada. 

• The Green and Inclusive Building program includes retrofits, repairs, upgrades and new builds that support jobs and local economic growth, contribute to climate objectives, and serve populations that have been particularly affected during the pandemic. 

• The 2BT (2 Billion Trees) Program funds tree-planting activities across the supply chain (from sourcing seeds to monitoring trees) to achieve the program goal of planting 2 Billion trees by 2031. The Program has a $500,000,000 Indigenous stream and supports capacity building for Indigenous organizations and communities across Canada as well. 

• FNIF (First Nation Infrastructure Fund) helps First Nations communities upgrade and increase public infrastructure to improve the quality of life and the environment in First Nation communities. FNIF targets infrastructure categories with long-standing community needs, including structural mitigation from natural hazards such as wildfires, floods, as well as including energy systems infrastructure that will help communities transition from fossil fuel to clean, reliable, and affordable energy systems such as hydroelectric, wind, and solar green and renewable energy. 

The ICE (Indigenous Clean Energy) Network has been working with the Canadian government for years, to contribute to Canada’s clean energy opportunities and is a the forefront of Indigenous-led and proposed renewable energies across the country forging toward energy futures, benefitting infrastructure in renewable energy and lessening our collective carbon footprint away from finite fossil fuels. 

In pan-Canadian collaboration, Indigenous participation in planning electricity futures and carbon price revenues more efficiently, reducing and changing the capital bottleneck for clean electricity that can help reduce costs for Canadians across the country, and helping Indigenous communities across the country as well as helping fund better futures. 

Bioenergy has been an important fuel source for small-scale projects and renewable energy projects that can replace diesel-reliant off-grid Indigenous communities will help tremendously with the overall health and wellness of Indigenous peoples, along with Canada’s overall footprint and grid for electricity and renewable resources on Indigenous lands being better utilized and used safely and renewable. 

The Clean energy in Indigenous, Remote, and Rural Communities Initiative was gifted the name Wah-ila-toos, a blend of Indigenous cultures and languages that reflects important relationships with Indigenous partners. It is the access to obtain Government of Canada funding and resources for clean energy initiatives for Indigenous, remote, and rural communities. Their mission is to provide funding for renewable energy and capacity-building projects and programs related to energy-efficient measures in Indigenous, rural, and remote communities across the entire country. 

It was a name gifted by three Elders and Grandmothers following several months of discussions with the Government of Canada directly and with support from Indigenous climate leaders and the department’s Circle of Nations, which is a gathering place for employees to learn about Indigenous traditions, cultures, and the current realities that face them today. 

Having an established and growing partnership between the government and Indigenous communities is important in the climate change steps forward and for improving the environmental impact that fossil fuels and other finite fuels, reducing the carbon footprint, and allowing help into Indigenous communities and rural ones that will benefit greatly from using green, renewable, and clean energy. Along with costs becoming more affordable, it allows the land to heal and creates jobs as well. 

Many Indigenous communities, rural and remote especially, use diesel and fossil fuels for heat and power. Diesel is a well-known energy source, however, it can be harmful and negatively impact the communities and the environment. Transitioning to clean power continues to be an important part as both parties work towards reconciliation. An additional $300 million is available until 2027 for clean energy projects to be granted help from the government directly to help support and fund Indigenous-led projects and programs. 

Biomass energy, biofuel, biomass electricity in Canada – what do all these terms mean and how do they benefit Canada as electricity and fuel? Around 2% of Canada’s electricity comes from biomass. Biomass is the third largest renewable electricity source in Canada, and as an example – the electricity generated from biomass increased by 54% from 2005 to 2015. Most biomass plants are in BC, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick. 

Learn more: Biogas in Canada: The Pros and Cons of Renewable Natural Gas

The Canadian government website has its own resources for biomass information and how industries can benefit from them. In this article, we will help you parse through everything and help you better understand what biomass is, what part it plays in helping to combat climate change, the potential for cheaper energy/heat/electricity across Canada, and to explain what benefit biomass, biofuels, and bioenergy can benefit the country as a whole from coast to coast while utilizing our natural resources in a more effective way. 

Canada is one of the 17 countries that participate in the research activities of the International Energy Agency (IEA) Bioenergy, which is an organization whose focus is improving the cooperation and information sharing between countries with national programs of bioenergy research, deployment, and development.

As a country, we contribute knowledge, expertise, and funds to IEA Bioenergy and in return, have access to research results and scientific exchanges such as clonal material from other contributing member countries. IEA has also contributed to research in Canada, for example, information from IEA has assisted with projects that are studying the sustainability of forest residues and biocomponents for bioenergy production, including any potential effects on land used to change over to enhanced bioenergy productions. 

We are also involved in nine bioenergy tasks, with Task 43 having the goal of promoting sound bioenergy development through well-informed and research-based decisions by business, government, and other such sectors. 

What is biomass energy and how is Canada involved? 

Biomass energy is an organic material that comes from recently deceased plants and animals and contains energy that once came from the sun. Bioenergy is energy produced from renewable, biological sources such as biomass. Biomass itself is a plant material that can be turned into fuel (which is also known as biofuel when it is made from biological material) that supplies electricity and heat, and bioenergy can be obtained from many different forms of biofuels. 

Examples of biomass in Canada can be wood, waste from crops and farming, landfill gas, and other municipal solid waste – these are the most common types within the country, with industrial wood waste being the most common across the country. Included are liquid biofuels used to run motor vehicles and forest wood residue used to run pulp mills and other such industrial operations. 

Canada’s forests represent a tremendously abundant source of biomass, as it makes up for most of the country’s landscape and use for fuels and pulp. Biomass is a resource that is rapidly growing as an important source for the growing global ‘bioeconomy’ as analysts have called it. All the trees and plants are used including roots, trunks, branches, bark, needles, leaves, and even fruits. 

Biomass Sources in Canada 

As stated previously, there are several sources of biomass and the subsequent biomass energy that can be used. Forest biomass, which is Canada’s most common source, comes from many areas: 

• Material from stand thinning. 
• Harvest residues and leftover waste. 
• Trees that are of harvestable age but are also not suitable for lumber. 
• Trees that were killed and destroyed by fires, insects, and disease. 
• Trees from plantations specifically grown to provide biomass for conversion into biofuels. 
• By-products of industrial processes and wood residues, such as chips, bark, and sawdust collected – this also includes pulp residues such as ‘black liquors’ that are left over from the pulping process itself.  

For decades, biomass residues have been a large energy source for the forestry industry and providing that energy fuels the production of pulp, paper, and lumber. Most pulp and paper mills, as an example, will use the residues left over from the pulping process and in turn produce electrical power and heat to run part of their operations. Others may burn bark and similar wood waste for their energy. Substantial amounts of material that otherwise may have gone to waste are being utilized and are giving back to the cycle. 

Modern-day biomass energy (bioenergy) has become an interest as a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to other types of fuels, especially fossil fuels – and doubly so within Canada where the country has a large abundance of natural resources that are renewable compared to other countries and can benefit greatly from making the switch and reducing Canada’s reliance on fossil fuels. In addition to creating energy, forest biomass is being used at an increased rate to create a wide range of renewable bioproducts as well, such as industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, personal care products, renewable materials, and other manufactured goods that otherwise would be made with harmful ingredients that also contribute to a larger carbon footprint. 

Using biomass this way as well has the potential to generate higher value returns than using it just for creating energy. CFS (Canadian Forest Service) researchers are undertaking research to determine how much biomass, sorted by species of tree and ecosystem type, can be safely removed from forests while still maintaining healthy ecological functions and continuing the cycle without any detrimental effects.  

 Other areas of research include developing methods to grow forest biomass faster and harvesting it more efficiently while improving systems to transport, process, and store it as well. Working with their counterparts in provincial and territorial governments, universities, and industries to explore a range of biomass-related and derived products and technologies for the future. For example, the NRCan-funded Transformative Technologies program, FPInnovations is supporting the development of emerging and promising breakthrough technologies and products, such as cross-laminated lumber and nanocrystalline cellulose. 

The Great Lakes Forestry Centre has CFS researchers developing new forest biomaterials and new biochemicals. In biotechnology, CFS is exploring a range of applications for improving forest regeneration and protecting forests through biological pest control, conserving forests and their genetic diversity. Bio-Pathways Project is helping industries understand the opportunities that will allow them to maximize the value derived from biomass and how to identify new markets for biochemicals and other new bioproducts that emerge from the green and renewable energy sectors/economy. 

How does biomass benefit Canada, and what technologies are used? 

The potential for biomass to benefit Canada globally and nationally for consumers is enormous. It was analyzed in the industry-led Bio-Pathways Project that began in 2009. Biomass is the basis for making renewable energy, other bioproducts, and biofuels that are rapidly replacing fossil-fuel-based energy and projects. The benefits will come in part from using the by-products of traditional forestry processes to create new high-value-added bioproducts. 

To date, the majority of processed biomass comes from manufacturing residues. The other sources, in comparison to that, remain largely untapped and can be monumental in how we access electricity and heat going forward and reducing our fossil fuel and carbon footprint, helping to reduce climate change. Benefitting from the processes and waste that are already being created makes sense to move forward to, especially since forest biomass can be converted into a variety of products, instead of just traditional lumber and paper that most don’t think of unless you work in the forestry sector. 

Canadian researchers are now working underway to develop new products and technologies that will maximize the value that is derived from forest biomass, and through initiatives such as the Transformative Technologies Program that is being delivered by FPInnovations, on behalf of Natural Resources of Canada (NRcan) itself, these new and innovative products can possible be available in the future sooner than we think. 

Canada’s industries are already making good use of biomass that comes in the form of industrial residue. Energy produced from mill residues currently accounts for around 62% of the pulp and paper industry’s energy needs and meets them. Overall, contributions of forest biomass to Canada’s secondary energy uses have increased since the 1970s from 3.5% upwards to 6.5% today – with that number exponentially growing as the research and use of biofuel, bioenergy, and biomass are a growing important step in reducing climate change and utilizing Canada’s resources in a renewable, greener, and cleaner fashion than before. 

When it comes to using data every day, most don’t give a thought to where their streamed videos, music, or other uses come from. Data centers or server rooms are where all remote storage, processing, or large amounts of data distribution comes from. Corporations and businesses tend to either have their own physical room for this or are utilizing one. Using the internet, streaming games/movies, music, and other uses all stem from data centers. 

What you may not think of is the impact having such intensive centers can have an impact on the environment and whether it is damaging to use on such a daily basis across the globe by billions. 

What is a data center and how do they work? 

At their most basic – they are a facility that houses an organization’s data, equipment, and IT operations. Data centers contain physical (or more recently over the years) virtual servers that are connected internally and externally through networking and communication equipment to transfer, store, and access digital information. Every server has its own processor, memory, and storage space – essentially like your personal computer at home but with far more power and size. 

Data centers are designed to run and handle high volumes of data and traffic with minimal latency.  

• Processing large data such as powering machine learning and AI. 
• Processing high-volume eCommerce transactions. 
• Online gaming platforms and communities such as Twitch. 
• Videos and music streaming; Spotify and Youtube as examples. 
• Private data storage, recovery, backups, and management all fall to the data centers. 

The largest data center providers as of currently in 2023: 

1. Amazon Web Services – Global 

2. Microsoft Azure – Global 

3. Google Cloud Platform – Global 

4. Meta Platforms (Facebook) – North America and Europe 

5. Equinix – Global 

6. Digital Realty – Global 

7. NTT Global Data Centers – Global 

8. CyrusOne – North America and Europe 

9. GDS Holdings – Global 

10. KDDI/Telehouse – Global 

The country with the largest number of data centers is the United States, with around 2,701 of them. Dallas itself has 153 data centers, while California has over 200. There are data centers spread throughout the United States across all 50 States. The largest data center in the world however is the China Telecom-Inner Mongolia Information Park, that is founded by a Chinese-state-owned communications company. 

Japan has the AT TOKYO Chuo data center, which is without a doubt Japan’s largest data center with a total area of 140,000 square meters. Europe has quite a few data centers, but their largest is in Portugal which is just shy of 75,000 square meters in size. Interestingly, the Altice Portugal data center is notable not only for being the largest, but it has a rainwater collection system and a garden with over 600 trees. Solar energy is also produced entirely on-site. It was strategically placed in the city of Covilhã, which is the coolest place in Portugal. Temperature is one of the most important risks to take into consideration for data centers and they have taken all the precautions while utilizing it to harness cleaner, green energy as well. More data centers could benefit from utilizing solar panels and other green energy use. 

Meta (previously Facebook) has its own giant of a data center, at a large 170,000 square feet space, 11-stories high that is in Singapore. Meta has several large data centers all around the world and the largest in the United States spans over nine buildings and nearly 345,000 square meters. By the end of 2023, they plan to open two more halls that are 41,000 square meters that will have two floors.

Why do data centers need to be so large, and is it necessary? 

Data centers are predicted to make up at least 10% or more of global energy consumption by 2030. The size provides the opportunity to expand businesses and use additional data center space. Economically speaking, large-scale businesses and investors will implement technological innovations, and all work together to continue attracting connection providers. Undoubtedly we will be hearing about large data centers in the future, as they more than likely will not be going anywhere – any time soon. 

Tech giants and other larger businesses have to pay the power bills just as we all do, just on a much grander scale, such as buying VPPA (Virtual Power Purchase Agreements.) It will be important for data centers in the future to be more reliant on clean energy, as there is a finite amount of electricity otherwise, and it does affect the environment and economy. Data centers may stay the same size or continue growing, but as long as they are done alongside green energy – it could help the economy as well as help shrink their large carbon footprints. 

How environmentally damaging is music and video streaming? 

With binge-watching TV shows, and music, installing smartphone apps, and sharing photos online across social media apps, the power usage and terabytes of data add up and are something we don’t take into consideration when it has become our day to day. 

The power demand when more appliances than ever rely on internet connections – even fridges and washer/dryer machines come Wi-Fi enabled now. All of those do add up to the electricity demands. It isn’t the individual usage that drives up the cost, but it is data centers needing a massive amount of cooling to be able to continue upkeeping the data transfers. With some centers being larger than football fields, it can be easy to see how the power demand could drive up environmental damage. Anders Andrae, a researcher in technology in Sweden, expects the global data centers to take up around 650 terawatt hours of electricity over the next few years. To put that on a scale, that is nearly as much electricity as Canada’s entire energy sector. 

Videos being streamed is the largest use of energy spent, with Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime being the top three taking up to 60% of all internet traffic. Finding green solutions to offset the energy spent is in discussions with multiple tech giants vowing to clean up their data centers and implement greener solutions. 

Streaming is becoming the new normal for day-to-day listening with audio, it can be difficult to fully gauge the carbon footprint. Vinyl, cassette tapes, and CDs for example all had a more obvious impact, with non-recyclable plastics and the energy spent creating them. Streaming has a more invisible effect, but an effect nonetheless. Our music and videos are effortlessly brought to us in our homes, on the way to work, or at parties. The electronic files are stored on the active, cooled data centers and those are what transfer your music to you. 

Streaming media has been said to account for around 3% of the global carbon footprint, and with how large scale and power-hungry data centers can be all around the world – it isn’t a far-fetched thought to consider. 

Streaming vs physical media: Comparing the environmental impact 

As previously stated, the difference between physical media and streaming services being an easy-to-access medium can be compared in their environmental impacts. Physical media of course has a more obvious impact at first glance with non-recyclable plastic, toxic plastics, and the energy needed to create these into something we can hold and use for years without degrading. 

Streaming, however, has a more invisible impact on the environment, especially when we don’t see the immediate effect or think about it as much. The data centers that store all our data and music are massive facilities that take a lot of energy to cool and maintain. To state they don’t make an environmental impact is not correct, and as technology continues to grow, it will more than likely become more apparent. 

Tech companies can work alongside green and clean energy while they grow their data centers, to power each other and keep them running as cleanly as possible without only taking away from the environment or creating lasting impressions negatively, such as using solar panels and water or wind cooling could be incredibly beneficial and sustainable in the long run. 

With the internet infrastructure always changing, so do the numbers. Today’s figures are out of date tomorrow. It’s all relative, but it does add up to the CO2 emissions being put out there. It may be modest, or it may be a significant amount – that all said, it does still affect the environment. There are multiple types of emissions and data centers, plus their physical counterparts can account for more than we think. 

Environmental impact as data centers and technology grow 

Entertainment content, whether it’s music, games, or video – all media is online and is poised to grow as time marches on. Data centers are at the epicentre of how we consume media. Regardless of what kind of digital media and how it’s accessed, entertainment requirements and the power consumption necessary to keep it smooth and available at high speeds will continue to climb with it. 

Data centers will evolve along with it and continue to expand capacity, build and strengthen networks, and develop ecosystems to maintain the high-performing online experience that makes the world connected. Data centers aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, and it will be up to the technology giants to work alongside clean energy to ensure that it will be long-lasting and leave less of a carbon footprint. 

With more countries putting their foot down towards better green energy and using renewable resources, it is within reason that data centers and tech giants will be required to do so over the coming years as well. Canada itself has pledged to have 90% of its electricity come from clean renewable sources by 2030. 

As a final note about current data centers and their carbon footprint on the environment – they have a long way to go to reduce their emissions and energy use, but with greener energy and working to have a more sustainable model in the future to come (because streaming and data use will only continue to grow as time marches on), it can be said that as consumers we can also do our part to stream less or look more into where our power comes from and what we take away from the information presented, especially when it is a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. 

The 2023 Canadian Hydrogen Convention (CHC) took place in Edmonton, Alberta, and brought together industry leaders, stakeholders, and government officials from across Canada and around the world. Successful pilots and rollouts demonstrated that hydrogen is ready for more domestic use. Two-thirds of Canada’s hydrogen is produced in Canada and is expected to grow with ATCO-Suncor’s Clean Hydrogen Production Facility or the Air Product’s hydrogen energy complex being developed in Alberta. 

Earlier in the year the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) was asked to conduct an inquiry into the future of hydrogen blending in Alberta and their findings have been submitted to the government, including potential impacts on consumers and further areas that need work and clarification. Hydrogen blending is a recent development that has been brought up in various provinces and worldwide. 

What is Hydrogen Blending? 

Hydrogen blending is the integration of concentrations of hydrogen into existing natural gas pipelines. Nearly all gas appliances in circulation today can run on a mixture of hydrogen and natural gas – this is called a blend. It is the process of adding hydrogen to natural gas transmission and distribution systems. 

By blending hydrogen with natural gas, it is possible to reduce the carbon intensity of delivered fuel and help with using more green energy. It can also be a boon for the economy, with hydrogen use growing as a green energy source. 

How does it work? 

When used as a fuel source, hydrogen emits only water vapour when combusted. The AUC inquiry was focused on hydrogen blending at 20% by volume in natural gas distribution systems, such as for residential and commercial utility purposes. 

Mixed fuel is being used in existing appliances such as boilers, gas furnaces, stoves, laundry dryers, and water heaters. In the coming months, they’ll work with stakeholders to continue developing a hydrogen blending framework that provides a cost-effective system for Albertans. Protecting consumers by working with different organizations responsibly in regulating the various parts of a hydrogen blending market and ensuring that everyone has the proper information about hydrogen and natural gas blending. 

Hydrogen Blending in Alberta

Alberta’s Hydrogen Roadmap identifies hydrogen blending at 15-20% by volume into the natural gas distribution network as an early (and important) market for hydrogen ambitions. 

The Fort Saskatchewan Hydrogen Blending Project is a first-of-its-kind project for Alberta. ATCO began to deliver a blend of natural gas containing 5% hydrogen by volume into a subsection of the Fort Saskatchewan natural gas distribution system in October 2022. Around 2,100 customers became the first in the province to use hydrogen-blended natural gas to reliably and safely fuel their homes and businesses. 

Since hydrogen only emits water, the project will reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of the associated natural gas stream. In advanced economies around the world, hydrogen blending is becoming popular – including Australia where ATCO’s Jandakot Operations Center in Perth has begun blending hydrogen into the gas distribution networks. For Fort Saskatchewan, the project will ultimately be produced onsite at their Gate 5 facility using a piece of equipment known as an electrolyzer. There will be no impact to the surrounding environment or wildlife and the work is on track to be completed in 2023. 

It is intended to be a stepping stone into the Canadian hydrogen market and allow ATCO to demonstrate its abilities in the sector while working through regulatory, commercial, public engagement, and technical. Including public engagement requirements. The project will act as a critical building block for Alberta’s energy future (and the rest of Canada), bringing with it many benefits to customers, users, and the provincial economy without customers needing to pay an exorbitant amount of money, plus helping to reduce the carbon footprint and work towards green, cleaner energy now and in the future. 

The Alberta Hydrogen Inquiry Report from June 2022 published by the AUC (Alberta Utilities Commission) is also worth reading and immersing yourself in, to better understand the utilities and hydrogen blending purposes. The key points taken from this are as follows: 

• The Commission first reviews proposed amendments to relevant legislation. Amending the definition of “gas” in the Gas Utilities Act to reference “up to 20% hydrogen by volume blended within a low-pressure natural gas distribution system” and including this definition in the Gas Distribution Act by reference. 
• The Commission finds that any significant changes to existing franchise rights should be avoided until the implications of hydrogen blending are better understood. An amendment to the Gas Distribution Act could be considered to clarify that the inclusion of the definition of “gas” does not expand the exclusive rights and duties of existing franchise area approval holders. It is also premature to determine whether gas distributors should have exclusive rights to pure hydrogen systems. 
• Explores the responsibilities of agencies involved in aspects of hydrogen regulation in Alberta. The current allocation of responsibilities between relevant Alberta agencies is capable of accommodating hydrogen development and its integration into the low-pressure distribution system. 
• The Commission then considers safety issues. For hydrogen blending to be successful, public safety and reliability are paramount, including relevant safety and reliability standards. Government-funded and delivered education initiatives targeting safety and other positive attributes of hydrogen use could be considered to promote public acceptance and ensure that a well-informed public perception of hydrogen exists. 
• The Commission considers it important to harmonize and clarify hydrogen regulations with federal and provincial governments to support the development of national and provincial codes and standards. 
• The Commission is of the view that a maximum blending threshold of 20% by volume, with no minimum threshold, is reasonable, but pilot projects should start at lower levels. 
• The Commission then reviews the delivery of services to rural natural gas consumers. Blending hydrogen with natural gas for rural distribution systems would be more challenging and less practical. The Commission is of the view that the focus, at least initially, should be on hydrogen integration within larger municipal systems. 
• As hydrogen blending is new to the province, consideration should be given to leveraging the experience of other jurisdictions. With a clear focus on safety and reliability, it may be reasonable to move forward with targeted pilot projects to better ascertain the impact of hydrogen blending, emissions reductions, carbon intensity of various hydrogen options and resulting carbon offset, and cost information. 

Alberta has the most information about hydrogen blending, as it is the province with the most resources and companies to do so, and is going ahead with it and testing projects. It is the place for low-carbon hydrogen production. Having an abundant and inexpensive supply of natural gas, unique geology, innovative technology, and infrastructure that is robust for carbon capture makes it ideal. 

The Edmonton Region Hydrogen Hub – Canada’s largest and first – with developments in hydrogen hotspots like Calgary and in southeast Alberta, already under consideration or underway with projects themselves already. Hydrogen hubs accelerate the development of regional hydrogen economies, which helps not only businesses and companies – but the consumer and customers all around the province. 

Providing a blueprint for national hydrogen frameworks and encourages collaboration among partners that will all benefit from sufficient levels of hydrogen supply and demand as time goes on. There are also incentive programs that will provide capital investment grants for hydrogen production projects and agencies have already provided over $92 million into funding for hydrogen projects as well. Investment into clean-tech development will continue and it will make the way easier for other provinces to follow suit. 

In Other Provinces 

Besides Alberta – British Columbia and Saskatchewan can produce hydrogen at half the wholesale cost of diesel and have the country’s largest carbon capture storage resources. At the end of 2020, the Canadian government published Hydrogen Strategy for Canada: Seizing the Opportunities for Hydrogen. In it, it said, “If Canada fully seizes the opportunity presented by hydrogen, it could lead to more than 350,000 sector jobs and direct revenues of over $50 billion per year by 2050.” 

• Two production facilities are in place for production in Manitoba, though information about them thus far into the year isn’t quite available yet. 

• The 2030 Québec Green Hydrogen and Bioenergy Strategy has the goal of creating suitable governance and favourable conditions for the development of the hydrogen and bioenergy sectors. 

• The B.C. Hydrogen Strategy is their plan to become a leading hydrogen economy. The strategy outlines the government’s actions to accelerate the development of B.C.’s hydrogen sector. It will help them reduce fossil fuel use and contribute to a better/lower carbon footprint. 

Hydrogen will be necessary for B.C. to achieve net-zero by 2050. Hydrogen will play a key role in reducing emissions across a wide range of sectors in B.C., including: 

• Medium and heavy-duty transportation 
• Industry and refining 
• Displacing natural gas 
• Displacing diesel used for electricity generation in remote communities 

B.C. has several advantages for producing low-carbon hydrogen. More than 98% of electricity generated in the province is clean or renewable. This means B.C. has a significant opportunity to produce clean hydrogen from electrolysis.  

B.C. is also home to abundant natural gas reserves and significant geological carbon storage capacity. These are necessary for producing low-carbon hydrogen from natural gas. With these attributes, B.C. can supply the growing global demand for low-carbon hydrogen.  

Hydrogen Strategy Working Group: Ontario established the Hydrogen Strategy Working Group that met nine times from February to June in 2021 and was made up of 23 industry and academic experts who provided advice on how to use hydrogen across various sectors and help Ontario compete in the global hydrogen market.  

Ontario’s low-carbon hydrogen strategy  sets out a vision for a low-carbon hydrogen economy in the province – one where we can leverage our many strengths to develop a self-sustaining sector in Ontario, evolve our energy system, create local jobs and attract investment while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. 

Hydrogen and hydrogen blending is inevitably moving forward within Canada and only time and numbers will tell what this means for customers directly, commercial businesses, energy companies, and green/clean energy factors and facilities. 

While a wide selection of utility providers means competition, the ability to shop around, and often affordable plans, it also means you could choose how to pay your energy bills. Many customers do not oppose having just one payment option (for instance, a long-term contract with monthly withdrawn payments from your bank account). Others prefer to manage their payments manually every month and wish to have the flexibility of using a credit card.  

If paying your utility bills with a credit card is an important factor for you, read below. We’ve selected Alberta-based utility companies that offer more than one payment method.  

ACE Energy   

ACE Energy is an electricity and natural gas retailer that operates in Alberta. They combine the Green Offset Program (renewable energy) and electricity rates.   

As for payments, ACE Energy offers two options: Pre-Authorized Debit (PAD) the one you set up to be withdrawn from your bank account, and a credit card payment (you could also set these up as automatic monthly withdrawals). One thing to keep in mind is when you are paying your utility bill with a credit card you will be charged 2.5% extra.   

If you have any questions about paying options or energy rates, ACE has a specialized call centre to assist you in any decisions you need to make about your energy usage.   

Read more about ACE Energy.

Alberta Utility Source   

Alberta Utility Source provides energy to over 400 Alberta communities.

You can choose to set pre-authorized debit payments from your banking account. That is their preferred method of payment. However, if you wish to use your credit card, Alberta Utility Source offers customers the Paytm Canada App payment method. The app allows you to add a preferred card, and also earn rewards.    

ATCOenergy   

Another energy provider in Alberta that caters to residential homes and commercial energy consumers, is ATCOenergy.   

To pay your energy bill you can use online banking and either set up automated monthly withdrawals or pay with a one-time credit card transaction. (Additionally, you have the option to send payment through the mail.)  

 Read more about ATCOenergy.

Bright Fire Energy   

Bright Fire Energy provides energy all over the province, making it available to both residential and commercial customers. They have been operating in Whitecourt since 2018. With every new customer, this energy provider gives back to their local community 10% of the annual profit.   

You could set pre-authorized monthly withdrawals from your debit account or use your credit card.   

Burst Energy  

Established in 2014, Burst Energy provides electricity and natural gas to Albertans, including both residential and commercial customers.   

If you decide to sign a contract with Burst Energy, you are offered two methods of payment. Besides pre-authorized debit payment, you can use a credit card. However, any credit card payments will be charged an additional 3% fee.   

Read more about Burst Energy.   

Camrose Energy   

Based in Camrose, Camrose Energy sells electricity and natural gas to Alberta residents. The company promises to work with every customer to find the best rates, without any hidden fees, and with the ability to switch between rates with ten days’ notice.   

When you pay your energy bills you have an option of setting automatic withdrawal or using your credit card and earning rewards with every paid bill.   

Read more about Camrose Energy.

Direct Energy   

Direct Energy delivers electricity and natural gas across Alberta. The retailer accepts major credit cards such as American Express, Visa, Master Card and others. The second method is a pre-authorized withdrawal from your bank account.  

Read more about Direct Energy.   

EasyMax by ENMAX  

EasyMax by ENMAX is based in Calgary but operates all over Alberta. They provide electrical services as well as solutions for better rates. EasyMax, as their customers say, offers safe and responsible energy services.   

ENMAX accepts Visa or MasterCard payments for both residential and commercial plans.   

 Read more about ENMAX.

Encor by EPCOR   

Another competitive retailer of electricity and natural gas is Encor by EPCOR. It provides natural gas and electricity to residential and commercial consumers.   

To pay your Encor by EPCOR bills, you can set an automatic monthly withdrawal or use your credit card for the one-time payment (there will be a small service fee.)  

 Read more about Encor by EPCOR.  

Foothills Energy Co-op   

Based in Black Diamond, Foothills Energy Co-op was founded in 2016. Since then, they deliver natural gas and electricity to farms, homes and commercial infrastructures.

As for payments, Foothills Virtual County Hall allows you to make a payment via credit card or debit card. You can also sign up for eBilling to reduce paper usage.    

Link Energy   

Link Energy is an Alberta-based retailer that delivers natural gas and electricity to commercial and residential customers all over the province.   

Like any other previously discussed energy provider, Link Energy offers various payment options. You can use pre-authorized debit, credit card or cheque to pay your utility bills.   

Read more about Link Energy.

Mountain View Power  

Based in Olds (and operated by the Olds Institute for Community & Regional Development), Mountain View Power delivers natural gas and electricity to homes and businesses all over Alberta.   

You can choose to pay Mountain View Power bills by setting up pre-authorized debit payments or use the Paytm Canada app to pay with a credit card and earn points.   

 Read more about Mountain View Power.

Park Power   

Park Power is based in Sherwood Park, and delivers electricity, natural gas and internet to residents all over Alberta. The company is privately owned.   

In addition to pre-authorized debit payments, you can use your credit card to pay for electricity and natural gas.   

 Read more about Park Power.  

Regional Energy Bill   

Focused on offering low rates for fixed and floating plans, Regional Energy is operating under the Electricity and Natural Gas Marketing Licenses issued to Sponsor Energy Inc.

Whether you decide to pay with a credit card, keep in mind that you will be charged an additional 3% processing fee.   

Read more about Regional Energy.

Sandstone Energy   

Sandstone Energy is another Calgary-based energy provider that markets electricity and natural gas all over the province except Medicine Hat and some rural areas.   

The company also allows you to use Paytm Canada App to pay your utility bills with credit cards.   

Read more about Sandstone Energy.

Solarmax Energy   

Solarmax Power began to operate in 2011 as an energy marketer that delivered electricity and natural gas to residential and small business customers. Solarmax Power also offers high-speed internet plans.  

This company allows customers to pick their preferable way of payment. The first one is by setting pre-authorized debit payments. The second one is by paying through the Paytm Canada App. In addition to paying with your credit card, you can earn rewards through pre-payments to Solarmax Power.   

Read more about Solarmax Energy.

Sponsor Energy   

Sponsor Energy is based in Alberta and has been in business for over ten years.

You are allowed to use your credit card to pay utility bills with Sponsor Energy, however, there will be a charge of a 2.4% processing fee.   

Read more about Sponsor Energy.

Vector Energy   

Vector Energy is another Alberta-based energy marketer that brings electricity and natural gas to customers all over the province. They offer fixed and floating rates.

As for paying your utility bills, Vector Energy allows you to make payments via pre-authorized monthly withdrawal or use the Paytm Canada app to pay with a credit card and earn points and rewards. 

Read more about Vector Energy.

Consumers in Newfoundland and Labrador can benefit from various energy efficiency programs, rebates, and other cost-effective plans.

From thermostats to insulation rebates, consumers can reduce natural gas and electricity consumption.   

“In 2019, annual electricity consumption per capita in Newfoundland and Labrador was 20 megawatt-hours (MWh),” says Canada Energy Regulator. The province is ranked third in Canada for electricity consumption (34% more than the national average).  

Newfoundland Power, as the primary distributor of electricity in the province, operates 12,850 kilometres of distribution and transmission lines on the island. The Provincial Government works with the Federal Government to expand rebate programs for residential homes and businesses alike. “The program will support approximately 10,000 homeowners to transition their homes from oil heat to electric heat,” as per Newfoundland and Labrador Government.   

Available for low and high incomes (minimum of $5,000), rebates may increase based on income level and heating system.    

Take Charge Residential Rebate Program   

One of those energy-efficient programs is TakeCharge Residential Rebate Program. TakeCharge partners with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador offering financial support required to install insulation and heat pumps and cover energy fees. TakeCharge subsidy focuses on reducing the cost of utility bills, making it easier for home and business owners to save money annually.   

Home Energy Saving Program (HESP) 

Another low-income incentive program is the Home Energy Saving Program. The Newfoundland & Labrador Housing Corporation offers grants for energy efficiency upgrades (up to $5,000) to households with an annual income of $32,500 or less.   

The Canada Greener Homes Grant  

Newfoundland and Labrador residents can also benefit from the Canada Greener Homes grant. Since buildings account for producing at least 18% of greenhouse gas emissions. This grant focuses on making life more energy efficient. (Besides, the Canada Greener Homes Grant creates new jobs and fights climate change.)    

Insulation Rebate   

As a part of the TakeCharge program, consumers can receive a rebate of up to 75% of the cost (up to $1,000) when they decide to insulate the basement ceiling or walls. Receive a rebate of 50% (up to $1,000) when insulating your attic (insulating the attic will keep your house cooler in summer).  

Properly insulating your house can not only keep the heat from escaping but also save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs. (Electrically heated buildings use at least 50% of electricity).   

Thermostat Rebates   

Installing electronic or programmable thermostats is a step towards a more comfortable home with a steady temperature, and one of the ways to save money on electricity bills. As a part of the TakeCharge program, thermostat rebates are available to homeowners with an active electricity account. (Keep in mind that to be eligible for thermostat rebates, your house’s primary source of heat must be electric with minimum annual electricity usage of 15,000 kWh.) 

Installing a programmable thermostat also offers the convenience of waking up in the morning to a heated house or not worrying about unnecessary energy usage when you leave for work or go away for vacation.   

HRV Rebate   

HRVs remove indoor pollutants and deliver fresh air inside without losing heat. With highly efficient HRV you can save thousands of dollars on electricity costs and keep your house warmer.