OTTAWA (November 24, 2021) – Today the Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) celebrated the achievements of electric utilities across Canada who have demonstrated the innovation, leadership and transformative thinking that is critical for creating a more sustainable electricity industry and decarbonized future.
Sustainable Electricity program is a mandatory initiative implemented by CEA and its members
that promotes the integration of sustainable, responsible policies in business decision-making, and continuous improvement of environmental, social, and economic performance. The initiative is built on a foundation of a thorough and rigorous process involving all electricity member companies, as well as insight and leadership from a Public Advisory Panel. This program allows utilities to reassess and continuously improve their practices year after year.
“Canada’s electricity sector has already done more to decarbonize the Canadian economy than any other sector to date. We are passionate about improving our sustainability practices year after year to reduce our impact on the environment and create a better future for the next generation. Our member companies are looking at creating solutions to problems that do not even exist yet to make sure we get to net zero by 2050 and beyond”, commented Francis Bradley, President and CEO of the Canadian Electricity Association.
The following recipients are being honoured with Sustainable Electricity™ awards:
Continuous Performance Improvement Award Winner – Ontario Power Generation
This award is given to a company that has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability performance improvement through new projects, programs, and initiatives. OPG has implemented an ambitious Climate Change Plan aimed at driving efficient, economy-wide decarbonization and economic renewal, while protecting the environment.
Leadership in External Collaboration and Partnerships Award Winner – Hydro Quebec
This award is given to a company with a strong commitment to external collaboration and partnerships with Indigenous Peoples, local communities, and other stakeholders. The Îles-de-la-Madeleine network, supplied by the Cap-aux-Meules (CAM) power station has integrated a wind farm from the local community to reduce fuel consumption by 15%. This is a project that originated from the local community, which took part in the development through participation in the Régie intermunicipale de l'énergie Gaspésie-IDLM. They own 50% of the wind farm and will receive earnings for the duration of the 20-year contract.
Advancement of an Integrated Approach to Sustainability Award Winner – Saint John Energy
This award is given to a company that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in the development, implementation, and maintenance of an integrated sustainability strategy within the company. Saint John Energy has developed a successful “Shave the Peak” initiative. This project helps reduce peak demand through customer education and taking advantage of existing resources that SJE has. In combination, it offers triple bottom line advantages by reducing emissions and reducing costs for customers.
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About the Canadian Electricity Association
Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) members generate, transmit and distribute electrical energy to industrial, commercial, residential and institutional customers across Canada every day. From vertically integrated electric utilities, independent power producers, transmission and distribution companies, to power marketers, to the manufacturers and suppliers of materials, technology and services that keep the industry running smoothly -all are represented by this national industry association.
For additional information:
Julia Muggeridge
Vice-president, Communications and Marketing
613.719.9323