Canada’s Largest Wind Energy Event Kicks Off with Bold Vision for Nation’s Clean-Electricity Future

Approximately 1,200 wind-energy leaders from across Canada and the United States have gathered in Calgary to learn, discuss, and debate the critical and growing role that wind energy will play in this nation’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

The Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) and its partner Deutsche Messe are hosting the 34^th Annual CanWEA Conference and Exhibition at the BMO Centre in Calgary until Thursday afternoon.

Over the coming days, leaders from government, industry, and utilities will share insights and unpack the latest trends from Canada’s fastest growing renewable-electricity sector. More than 130 exhibitors are also showcasing the latest wind energy-related products and services.

A highlight of the opening plenary was the launch by CanWEA President Robert Hornung of A Wind Energy Vision for Canada. The new Vision, paints an exciting picture of the expanding role for low-cost wind energy in Canada’s ongoing transition to an affordable, reliable and sustainable non-emitting electricity grid.

“If Canada is to do its part to address climate change, by the middle of the century the nation’s power grid must be overwhelmingly free of greenhouse gas emissions. Wind power will play a central role in providing affordable and clean electricity for buildings, vehicles, factories, and more. With consistent policy signals, and in deep collaboration with communities and other enabling technologies, Canada’s wind energy industry is ready to deliver the electricity this nation will need,” says Robert Hornung, President, Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA).

“We’re excited to be here in Alberta – the heart of new wind energy development in Canada. A recent study of the Alberta wind energy supply chain has shown that wind energy is poised to pour $3.6 billion into local economies while creating over 28,000 person-years of employment and helping this province meet its 2030 renewable-energy target. The nation’s wind energy industry is proud to be playing a leading role in the next chapter of Alberta’s ongoing resource-sector story,” says Cory Basil, Vice-President of Development for EDF Renewables, and Board Chair for the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA).