Challenges in Canada's Energy Transition:
- Keith Hershey discussed the false dichotomy between oil and gas and renewables in Canada. Unlike countries like Saudi Arabia and Norway, Canada has not harmonized the two sectors well, affecting policy and opportunities.
Alberta's Policy:
- Keith mentioned that Alberta had a deregulated power market, allowing competitive renewable projects. However, the rapid rate of development led to problems with the grid and land use. This has resulted in a moratorium on major renewable projects by the UCP government.
Situation in BC:
- Initially promising for renewables, BC's focus shifted to large projects like Site C, sidelining smaller-scale renewable efforts. Keith cited missed opportunities to convert abandoned oil and gas sites into solar projects.
Barriers to Renewable Energy:
- Keith attributed some obstacles to traditional energy practices and inefficiencies in transmission. He believes utilities and governments are slow to adapt to new, decentralized technologies like solar.
Political Instability:
- Short election cycles and the politicization of energy act as roadblocks in Canada. This hampers long-term planning, unlike in countries with stable, long-term energy transition strategies.
Hope for the Future:
- Keith is hopeful but uncertain. He cites contrasting examples: Saudi Arabia and Norway are making strides in energy transition, while Alberta and BC are lagging. Constructive dialogue may be the key to progress.
Full transcript
Interviewer (Jason): We're talking about the global focus on energy transition, and it seems to contrast with the current politics in Western Canada. Keith, as someone transitioning from oil and gas to renewables in Alberta, what challenges have you faced?
Keith Hershey: There's a false divide in Canada between oil and gas and renewables. This is different from countries like Saudi Arabia and Norway, where there is a blended approach.
Jason: What about Alberta's moratorium on renewable projects?
Keith: Alberta initially had a competitive market for renewables, but the rapid deployment led to unforeseen problems with grid capacity and land use, causing a backlash.
Jason: How is BC doing in terms of renewables?
Keith: It's disappointing. BC had potential but shifted focus to projects like Site C, sidelining smaller renewable initiatives. There were missed opportunities to use abandoned oil and gas sites for solar projects.
Jason: Why do these barriers to renewables exist?
Keith: The existing systems were designed around large-scale, centralized energy production. This makes it difficult for utilities and governments to adapt to decentralized technologies like solar.
Jason: Have you considered relocating because of these challenges?
Keith: I spend time in Alberta but remain hopeful. Political climates change rapidly, affecting long-term energy plans.
Jason: Are you optimistic that Canada will catch up to other countries in energy transition?
Keith: I'm unsure. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Norway, and even states like Texas have been more successful. Constructive dialogue may help Canada overcome its challenges.
Jason: Thank you for your time, Keith.
Keith: Thank you, Jason.