THIS WEEK
Why Atlantic Canada loves wind power more than Ontario does, battles for battery supremacy, and enlightening revelations from the Outback.
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ECONOMY
Clean energy is big business
The clean energy industry is now worth a whopping US$200 billion in the U.S. alone. For context, that's the size of America's pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, as this Vox article outlines—and not far behind consumer electronics.
Worldwide, it's the same story (you can read the report here). Clean energy is a US$1.4 trillion industry globally, well ahead of airlines, roughly tied with apparel and catching up with media. As for its trajectory, clean energy's growth rate is more than double that of the world economy (seven per cent vs. three per cent). The take away? Don't let anyone tell you this is a niche industry.
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Winning wind farms
Wind farms in Nova Scotia are three times as popular as those on Ontario. Why the contrast? It may have something to do with involving community, a new study says. The report finds that including local residents in the planning and benefits process makes a big difference.
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A game of batteries
China wants to win the war of batteries and squeeze out its Japanese and South Korean rivals. The $11.5-billion Contemporary Amperex Technology Ltd., the country's fastest-growing battery maker, hopes to capitalize on rising battery demand in the era of electric cars.
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A slightly different game of batteries
Lithium-ion is no doubt the current leader in the energy storage race, but it's not the only car on the road. Flow batteries are emerging as a potential competitor. Here's a rundown of other battery advances to keep an eye on.
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Crystal-balling B.C.'s energy future
B.C.'s biggest wind farm is now operational, but it may not be a sign of things to come in the near future, as the Site C megadam currently under construction means the province is not looking for additional power. The good news is BC Hydro envisions a more electric future.
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An important memo for policy makers
One of the most effective ways of reducing carbon pollution may also be one of the least talked about: buildings. The energy used in them accounts for nearly a quarter of all emissions in Canada, and they have long lifespans—meaning improving their efficiency goes a long way.
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Up close and digital
In the age of data, perhaps it shouldn't come as a surprise that energy data will play a vital role in the clean economy. Here's a look at the value proposition offered by granular data (yes, this one is for the true geeks).
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Lessons from Australia
Two interesting observations out of Australia last week: first, a spike in new clean energy projects led to a sharp decline in carbon pollution in the country; and second, wholesale power prices have doubled since the country killed its carbon tax. Hmm.
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Not your parents' Shell
The world's second-biggest public oil company, Shell, plans to up its investment in renewable energy to $1 billion a year by 2020, citing disappearing "acceptance of the energy system as we have it" as one reason. Shell also recently sold most of its stake in Alberta's oilsands.
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Sigh
And last but not least, a rundown of President Donald Trump's dumpster fire of emerging energy and climate policy. There's this one, and this one, and this one, and this one. Oh, and of course this one. Sorry, that wasn't the best note to end this thing on.
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Clean Energy Review is sponsored in part by Genus Capital Management, a leading provider of fossil-fuel-free investments.
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FRONT BURNER
Global Learning Forum 2017
May 17-19 | Vancouver
At last, an event for urban nerds and climate geeks alike. In May, join Renewable Cities for Global Learning Forum 2017, a three-day dialogue on the transition to 100 per cent renewable energy in cities. More than 400 leaders from the private sector, NGOs, academia, government and utilities will engage on topics such as policy development, building political goodwill, financing and all things green and urban. Yes, this is a very Vancouver event (in a good way!). Learn more.
March 23 | Calgary
Enabling Development of Geothermal Projects and Technology
Want to learn more about the geothermal landscape in Canada and what it has to offer? Join the Canadian Geothermal Energy Association for a one-day event to hear from experts in the field and network. Learn more.
April 3 | Calgary
The battle for the hearts and wheels of the market
Is the oil industry's century-old monopoly on transportation ending? What would it mean for investors and policy makers? A one-day forum hosted by Peter Tertzakian and Jackie Forrest of ARC Energy Research Institute. Learn more.
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