Alberta 
Smith says Alberta close to federal agreement on carbon pricing
Premier Danielle Smith stated that Alberta is close to finalizing a carbon pricing agreement with the federal government, with an announcement expected within days following discussions with Prime Minister Mark Carney. The agreement is a key outstanding component of the Alberta–Canada energy memorandum of understanding (MOU), alongside unresolved plans for a $16.5-billion carbon capture network. Smith described ongoing negotiations as highly collaborative, noting recent progress such as a methane emissions reduction deal and increased provincial control over project approvals. The proposed framework would raise Alberta’s industrial carbon price from $95 to $130 per tonne, though the timeline for reaching this level remains under negotiation. Alberta continues to oppose the federal target of $170 per tonne by 2030, citing concerns about economic competitiveness, job losses, and consumer costs. Meanwhile, discussions continue a major carbon capture and storage project involving government and industry partners, which would include a large pipeline network to transport CO₂. The broader goal of the MOU includes enabling future energy infrastructure, such as a potential bitumen pipeline to the B.C. coast, though key investment and policy decisions are still pending.
Source: Calgary Herald
Electricity Prices for Alberta
The Alberta power pool price averaged 3.363 cents per kWh in March 2026. This price is 1.124 cents higher than last month’s average of 2.239 cents. The pool price has averaged 4.176 cents per kWh over the last 12 months.
As of April 1, 2026, the forward market was predicting electricity prices for the calendar years of 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030, and 2031. These prices are 4.192, 4.782, 5.900, 6.356, 6.656, and 6.956 cents per kWh respectively.
Gas Prices for Alberta
Direct Energy’s gas rate for March 2026 was $1.784 per GJ in Alberta. The April 2026 rate has been set at $1.874 per GJ. Alberta gas prices have averaged $1.971 per GJ over the last 12 months.
As of April 1, 2026, the forward market was predicting gas prices for the calendar years of 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, and 2030. These prices are 1.69, 2.37, 2.50, 2.62, and 2.67 cents per GJ respectively.
British Columbia
FortisBC supports energy-efficiency project at YVR
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is advancing its environmental goals through new energy-efficiency upgrades to its heating system, supported by FortisBC Energy Inc.. The project involves installing high-efficiency heating equipment in the International Terminal Building and transitioning to Renewable Natural Gas, reflecting a collaborative effort to reduce emissions and modernize airport infrastructure while maintaining passenger comfort. The upgrades are part of YVR’s broader Roadmap to Net Zero 2030 strategy and are expected to significantly improve energy performance by lowering system operating temperatures and reducing energy loss. As a result, the airport anticipates cutting natural gas use by over 12,000 gigajoules annually, reducing emissions by approximately 700 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, and saving about $175,000 in yearly operating costs, demonstrating both environmental and economic benefits.
Source: Cision
Ontario 
The Great Lakes are wasting a massive source of clean energy
The energy system in the Great Lakes region, as in most parts of North America, is wasteful, where large amounts of generated energy—particularly in the form of heat from power plants, data centres, and wastewater—are unused rather than reused. Emerging efforts aim to capture this “waste heat” and repurpose it for heating and cooling through district energy systems, offering potential benefits such as reduced emissions, lower energy costs, decreased reliance on fossil fuels, and less strain on electricity infrastructure. Proven technologies already exist, and successful models in Europe demonstrate the feasibility of large-scale adoption. Despite these opportunities, widespread implementation in North America faces major barriers, including limited policy support, funding challenges, public perception issues, and lack of coordination among utilities and stakeholders. While pilot projects and initiatives in cities like Toronto and St. Paul show promise—such as using sewage heat or data centre waste heat—experts emphasize that progress will require stronger government incentives, regulatory frameworks, and collaboration across sectors. Ultimately, integrating waste-heat recovery into new and existing energy systems could play a key role in advancing regional decarbonization and energy efficiency goals.
Source: The Narwhal
Saskatchewan 
Over Half of Ottawa’s $28.9M Clean Tech Push Is Going to Carbon Capture
Tim Hodgson announced a $28.9 million investment through Canada’s Energy Innovation Program, with the largest share directed toward carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) projects. Five CCUS initiatives will receive the bulk of funding, including nearly $15 million allocated to two organizations in Saskatchewan for research and development. Additional funding of over $9 million will support solar energy projects, while the remainder will be invested in smart grid technologies to improve electricity efficiency. The program aims to advance clean energy innovation while maintaining reliability and competitiveness in Canada’s energy sector. The funding aligns with the broader energy strategy of Prime Minister Mark Carney, which places strong emphasis on carbon capture as a prerequisite for expanding oil sands production and pipeline infrastructure. Federal plans, including the Ottawa–Alberta memorandum of understanding, tie future pipeline development to large-scale carbon capture deployment, particularly through collaboration with the Oil Sands Alliance. This approach underscores the government’s position that significant emissions reductions must accompany any growth in fossil fuel exports.
Source: The Deep Dive
Manitoba 
‘Near failing grade’: conservation groups react to Manitoba budget
Manitoba’s 2026 provincial budget has drawn strong criticism from environmental organizations, which argue it fails to deliver meaningful progress on climate action despite government promises. Groups such as Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society and Climate Action Team Manitoba gave the budget a near-failing grade, citing insufficient investment in emissions reduction, conservation, and sustainable infrastructure. While the government increased funding for the Environment and Climate Change Department and continued programs like home energy retrofits and electric vehicle rebates, critics say these measures largely maintain existing efforts rather than introduce the transformative investments needed to address worsening climate impacts such as wildfires. The budget does include some positive initiatives, such as plans for free public transit for youth and modest funding for parks and conservation projects. However, environmental groups argue these steps fall short of what is required to meet ambitious climate and biodiversity targets, including protecting 30 per cent of land and water by 2030. They contend that prioritizing tax cuts and fiscal balance over substantial climate investment risks higher long-term environmental and economic costs and call for greater funding in areas like public transit, conservation, and low-carbon industry development.
Source: The Narwhal
New Brunswick 
New Brunswick Gas Plant Faces Growing Backlash Over Costs, Climate Impact
A proposed 500-megawatt gas-and-diesel power plant in New Brunswick’s Tantramar region has sparked growing opposition from residents, environmental groups, and federal figures, including Elizabeth May. Critics argue the Renewable Integration and Grid Security (RIGS) project, led by NB Power, could increase electricity rates by roughly 4–5% while contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental risks in the vulnerable Chignecto Isthmus area. Concerns have also been raised about limited transparency, unclear total project costs—estimated between $1 billion and $3.5 billion—and insufficient evaluation of cleaner alternatives. Supporters, including NB Power, maintain the project is necessary to address a projected electricity shortfall by 2030 and to stabilize the grid amid growing reliance on renewable energy. However, opposition continues to intensify, with Indigenous groups conducting independent assessments and over 120 academics criticizing the project as environmentally and economically unsound. Alternatives such as wind, solar, battery storage, and demand management are being promoted as more sustainable and cost-effective solutions, while provincial leaders consider potential changes in response to public pressure.
Source: The Energy Mix
Prince Edward Island 
Proposal to power PEI raises concern about carbon pollution
Prince Edward Island is facing a growing electricity capacity challenge, with demand increasing by 66% since 2010 and reaching a record peak during a January 2026 cold snap. Currently reliant on imported power from New Brunswick and local renewable generation, the province is experiencing a supply deficit during peak winter periods. In response, Maritime Electric has proposed increasing on-island generating capacity, including plans to acquire combustion turbines to improve energy reliability and reduce dependence on neighbouring jurisdictions. However, an independent review commissioned by environmental organizations raises significant concerns about the proposed turbine purchase from ProEnergy Services. The report highlights technical, financial, and environmental risks, including the turbines’ unproven performance in cold climates, lack of long-term service guarantees, high water usage, and potential to lock in carbon emissions. Critics argue that the $334 million project could burden ratepayers and that cleaner alternatives—such as battery storage and other non-emitting technologies—have not been adequately considered, calling for greater scrutiny before proceeding.
Source: Environment Journal
Québec 
Quebec Greenlights 186-MW Wind Farm with Guaranteed Payments for Host Communities
Quebec regulators have approved the 186-megawatt Forêt Domaniale wind farm, a major renewable energy project in southeastern Quebec set to begin construction in 2026 and be completed by 2027. The project will include 30 turbines and is structured as a 50/50 partnership between EDF and Alliance de l’énergie de l’Est, which represents municipalities, regional groups, and First Nations communities. This collaborative ownership model ensures local participation in decision-making and aligns the project with regional development and environmental priorities. The wind farm is expected to deliver long-term economic benefits to host communities, including approximately $30 million in payments over its 30-year lifespan, with a significant portion directed to municipalities where the turbines are located. The project reflects a broader trend in Quebec toward community-inclusive renewable energy development, building on previous partnerships that have generated steady revenue streams for local governments while advancing the province’s energy transition.
Source: The Energy Mix
Newfoundland and Labrador 
A Newfoundland village built on fish weighs a future built on energy
The small Newfoundland village of Fermeuse, historically reliant on fishing, is facing potential major industrial change as Crown LNG Holdings’ affiliate, Fermeuse Energy, explores the development of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) processing and export facility in its protected harbour. While the company has approval for a marine base and has signed a partnership with South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean, no formal LNG plant proposal has yet been submitted. If built, the project could include a floating liquefaction facility and a 380-kilometre offshore pipeline, potentially processing up to 10 million tonnes of LNG annually for export to Europe and India. CEO Swapan Kataria emphasizes that the project would create jobs and economic opportunities for a community that has experienced decades of economic stagnation following the cod fishery collapse. However, residents are deeply concerned about the environmental, social, and cultural impacts. Locals worry that industrialization could disrupt the harbour’s ecosystem, harm fisheries and livestock, and transform the quiet, small-town way of life. Many draw lessons from Kitimat, B.C., where the LNG Canada facility brought economic benefits but also major noise, pollution, and light disruptions. Community members like Valerie Walsh and Brenda Aylward stress the lack of detailed information from Fermeuse Energy and advocate for exploring sustainable economic alternatives such as tourism or cooperative fisheries. The project highlights a tension between potential economic revitalization and preserving the village’s traditional lifestyle and environment.
Source: The Narwhal
Nova Scotia 
EverWind secures more than $240M in financing for N.S. wind and hydrogen projects
EverWind Fuels, a Nova Scotia-based wind energy company co-owned by Indigenous partners including the Membertou, Paqtnkek, and Potlotek First Nations, has secured $240 million in financing from New York-based Nuveen Infrastructure Credit to develop onshore wind farms and a green hydrogen/ammonia project in Richmond County, Cape Breton. Phase 1 of the project includes four wind farms with a combined capacity of over 650 MW, enough to power approximately 200,000 homes, with electricity routed to EverWind’s Point Tupper hydrogen and ammonia facility. The project is expected to generate 100 long-term skilled jobs, 500 construction jobs, and more than $1 billion in contracts and procurement opportunities across Nova Scotia. The hydrogen plant, aimed at producing 200,000 tonnes of clean ammonia annually in the first phase, is planned to come online a few years after the first wind energy flows in 2028. The project represents a landmark collaboration between Indigenous communities and private investors, with Membertou First Nation holding a 51% stake in Phase 1. It also aligns with broader international interest in renewable hydrogen, including EU support for Canadian hydrogen exports to Germany. Despite the promise, the regional hydrogen sector faces challenges, such as unpaid land reserve fees in Newfoundland and financial instability among competitors like World Energy GH2, highlighting the risks and complexities of developing large-scale wind-to-hydrogen projects in Atlantic Canada.
Source: Canada’s National Observer
Nunavut 
QEC reviewing aging Coral Harbour power plant as solar project moves ahead
Nunavut’s government is assessing the territory’s aging power infrastructure as it plans for upgrades and renewable energy projects. The Qulliq Energy Corporation (QEC) issued a request for proposals last August to evaluate several diesel power plants, including Coral Harbour’s 37-year-old facility. Energy Minister Gwen Healey Akearok confirmed that four replacement power plants are already under construction, with funding being sought for six more high-priority plants. The assessment results, expected soon, will guide future upgrades and replacements across the territory. In addition to conventional power upgrades, Nunavut is pursuing renewable energy projects through Kivalliq Alternative Energy, an Inuit-led partnership. The organization is developing solar projects in Coral Harbour and Naujaat, aiming to supply up to 30% of local electricity with clean energy. The Naujaat project is expected to be completed in 2026, with efforts underway to finalize grid connections. However, details on the Coral Harbour solar project remain unclear. These initiatives reflect a broader effort to modernize energy systems and incorporate locally-produced renewable energy in remote communities.
Source: Nunavut News
Northwest Territories 
Indigenous-led trust invests its first $21.6M in conservation in Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories is advancing Indigenous-led conservation through the Our Land for the Future Trust, which has disbursed $21.6 million to 21 Indigenous governments to support protected areas and Guardian programs. The trust, established through a 2024 agreement involving the federal and territorial governments, Indigenous governments, and private donors, is part of a broader $375 million investment in Indigenous-led conservation. Funds will support both the management of existing protected areas, like Edéhzhíe and Thaidene Nëné, and the development of new areas, contributing to Canada’s goal of protecting 30% of its lands and waters by 2030. Guardian programs, which involve local Indigenous people in stewardship, monitoring, and cultural programming, are a key component of these efforts. A major milestone under this initiative is the official recognition of three Tłı̨chǫ protected areas—Tłı̨chǫ Nàowoò K’è Dèt’àhot’ı̨ı̨, Gowhaèhdǫǫ̀ Yek’e Aet’ı̨̀ı̨ K’è, and Tıts’aàdı̀ı Nàdèe K’è Wexoedıı—which together cover 22,565 square kilometers, roughly half of Tłı̨chǫ lands. These areas preserve cultural trails, important waterways, and critical wildlife habitats while offering full-time jobs as Guardians, which help maintain traditional knowledge and cultural practices. The funding ensures local communities can actively participate in land stewardship while supporting economic opportunities amid anticipated declines in other regional employment sectors, like diamond mining.
Source: The Narwhal
Yukon 
Yukon government takes steps to address energy needs
Yukon’s Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources, Ted Laking, introduced Bill No. 2 to repeal the 2026 Clean Energy Act. The move aims to stabilize the territory’s electricity grid, which is under pressure from high winter demand, by ending legislated policies such as the electric vehicle mandate and emissions targets that have increased electricity consumption. The government plans to review electrification incentives, including tax rebates and subsidies, to better align energy use with the grid’s capacity. The Winter Reliable Energy Plan will complement this approach by promoting policies that reduce widespread electrification in housing, construction, and transportation. At the same time, Yukon is investing in expanding energy supply, including the $500 million Whitehorse Power Centres Project, which will phase in new thermal capacity by 2028 and 2030, reducing reliance on costly rental diesel generators. Repealing the Act is intended to refocus climate efforts on practical, achievable actions for the territory.
Source: Yukon Government