VANCOUVER — JESSICA MCILROY, Manager of Government Relations with the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to the release of the CleanBC review panel’s final report:
“Today’s review of CleanBC recognizes that the global clean energy transition is well underway, and that reducing emissions and building a strong, resilient economy that works for British Columbians go hand-in-hand.
“We were pleased to see many of the critical actions we recommended as part of the review process reflected in the expert panel’s report.
“It’s clear that B.C. should continue what’s working: growing our supply of clean electricity, strengthening industrial carbon pricing and reducing methane emissions, helping people electrify their homes and vehicles, and supporting workers transitioning to jobs in the clean economy. CleanBC has successfully positioned B.C. as a clean energy leader, showing that reducing emissions and embracing clean energy is how we build a resilient economy.
“None of this can be achieved without a ready and skilled workforce. The review rightly notes the importance of establishing a labour market outlook and development plan to help workers seize opportunities. The commitment to doubling government’s investment in skilled trades training in B.C.’s “Look West” strategy will help workers find jobs in the low-carbon economy.
“As Canada’s leader in EV adoption, and with our clean electricity grid and major investments in charging infrastructure, B.C. can be a global EV leader, if we commit. We can adjust course where needed, but weakening the overall signal would slow the introduction of new, more affordable models that would allow more British Columbians to experience the cost-savings that come with EVs. We should aim high and help push the country forward as global EV momentum accelerates.
“The expert panel recognizes that reliance on LNG remains a risky economic bet – and that government’s plans to increase gas production and LNG exports threatens progress. We support the panel’s recommendations to prioritize other uses of our finite clean electricity supply, and ensure that all energy development in the province is based on consultation and partnership with Indigenous nations.
“CleanBC’s success should be measured in ways that are meaningful to British Columbians: how many EVs are we driving, how many heat pumps have we installed in our homes, and how much money have they saved us. How much is being invested and how many jobs are being created, thanks to our economy-wide adoption of clean energy.
“B.C. has made progress to reduce emissions and prepare for leadership in the clean economy, but we must now do more, faster. British Columbians want energy solutions that save them money, that learn from our successes and respect regional differences. It’s now on government to solidly commit to these recommendations and provide the certainty the private sector needs, so British Columbians can experience the full range of benefits – from cost-savings and jobs, to energy security and healthier communities.”
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Contact
Brendan Glauser
Senior Director, Communications, Pembina Institute
604-356-8829
Background
Report: B.C.’s climate future: Pembina Institute recommendations to independent review of CleanBC
Media release: CleanBC key to resilient economy, reducing emissions, making life more affordable in B.C.
