Canada needs to build the nation pointed to the future, not the past - Clean Energy Canada

Clean Energy Canada’s executive director Rachel Doran responded to the Canadian government’s announcement of fast-tracking projects under Bill C-5 by emphasizing the need for Canada to build a future-focused economy centered on clean energy and innovation. She highlighted that while Canada currently ranks low among advanced economies in adapting to the evolving energy landscape, there is strong public and international momentum toward electrification and net-zero commitments. The government’s expedited projects include copper and gold mining in Saskatchewan and B.C., small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) in Ontario, port upgrades in Quebec, and LNG expansion in B.C., all aimed at supporting clean resource development and economic growth. Doran pointed out the strategic importance of increasing copper production for Canada’s domestic battery and electric vehicle supply chains, as copper is essential for electrifying the economy and expanding affordable electricity infrastructure. She acknowledged the potential role of SMRs in Ontario’s energy mix but stressed that nuclear should complement, not replace, lower-cost renewables and energy storage to keep energy affordable