A national grid should accelerate – not stifle – the energy transition

In response to Donald Trump’s trade war and annexation threats, Canadians are thirsty for new nation-building projects that can make us less economically reliant on the U.S.

One proposal that has been receiving attention is expanding interprovincial electricity transmission.

Proponents emphasize economic efficiencies from energy trade, and the technical benefits of coupling wind and solar production with “natural batteries” in large hydro reservoirs.

Taking lessons from history, past nation-building infrastructure projects of a similar sort came up short in many ways, notably by failing to develop diversified technology systems.

To better ensure success this time, complementary, regional renewable energy and energy demand innovations must be made a priority. Read Full Article Here

By Brandan Haley, adjunct research professor at Carleton University’s School of Public Policy & Administration