By Canadian Press

Alberta’s United Conservative government releases ‘aspirational’ plan on climate

Apr 19, 2023 | 10:52 AM

EDMONTON — Alberta’s United Conservative Party government is releasing a plan that it hopes will take the province to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The plan, which describes itself as “aspirational,” relies heavily on technologies such as carbon capture and storage.

However, it contains few details on the pace of investment and construction required to achieve that goal.

The plan also promises to consider a lower greenhouse gas cap from the oilsands and tougher fuel emissions standards.

It says methane emissions standards will also be more stringent and the climate effects are also to be considered in provincial land-use decisions.

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Alberta Environment officials say it’s the first time the province has set a net-zero target.

Marlin Schmidt, Alberta NDP Critic for Environment, issued the following statement in response:

“Danielle Smith and the UCP lack credibility on climate and the economy.

“By their own admission, this so-called plan is purely aspirational, does not set firm targets, lacks accountability, and relies on technology that is yet to be deployed. Even Minister Sonya Savage admitted her plan isn’t finished.

“The UCP have left billions of dollars of job-creating investment on the sidelines because they refuse to establish clear climate policy or take action to remain competitive as we move towards a net-zero economy.

“Alberta’s NDP will achieve a net-zero electricity grid by 2035 and a net-zero economy by 2050. We will do so by working with industry to create the proper regulatory framework and market structure, as well as providing incentives in cleantech to restore our competitiveness and attract investment so Alberta can compete on the global stage and continue to be an energy leader.

“This includes the Alberta’s Future Tax Credit that was released last fall as part of our Competitiveness, Jobs, and Investment Strategy to spur investment in clean technologies, carbon materials, alternative fuels, and advanced manufacturing. In addition, we will restore the Alberta Investor Tax Credit that will support investment in new technology and ideas that will help lower emissions.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 19, 2023.

The Canadian Press

(With files from rdnewsNOW)