According to word scientific consensus, it is crucial that renewable energy begin to become deeply integrated into electricity systems around the world, if the Globe is to hold its global annual temperature at 1.5 degrees Celsius to mitigate the climate emergency. Solar energy must make up between 70-85 percent globally to ensure the safety and well being of all sentient beings. Approximately 16% of Canada’s total energy supply is a direct result of renewable energy resources primarily including solar, hydroelectricity and wind. Canada should work on increasing its renewable energy sector to ensure we remain on track towards a net-zero goal.

Research has predicted and projected that Canada’s dependence on renewable energy such as wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, and more will increase as the global growth increases through international organizations around the world. The year 2020 has marked the start of the “decade of renewables” according to IRENA director Francesco La Camera, as the benefits are becoming increasingly recognizable, solar energy and solar energy systems are more affordable, and the market demand in clean technology is crucial now more than ever. Hydropower accounts for approximately 63% of electricity generation, and many of the dams in North America are over 100 years old. China plays a quintessential role in the renewable energy industry, especially given the growth and increase of 40 percent over the last decade. To date, China is one of the greatest suppliers of renewable energy materials in the globe, which include silicon, copper, steel, glass and much more.

The Government of Canada intends to invest $964 million in “smart renewable energy and grid modernization projects”, such as wind and solar. The aim is to transition to 100% renewable energy through electrification, grid development projects, and electric vehicle transportation by the intended goal of 2040. In 2011, Quebec and Ontario had produced about 57% of their electricity generation, with approximately 90% of their electricity demand deriving from renewables. A growing interest has begun in governments, as they are looking to increase smart grid technologies, connections, energy development in off-grid communities, and renewable energy opportunities.

The message is clear – renewable energy is the future, but the question has become… can Canada adapt to the growing resurgence in the marketplace and energy sector? Canada could certainly use collaboration and more research moving forward in the consideration, development and implementation of renewable energy. Canada must begin to focalize its intentions towards efforts in the municipal, provincial and federal sectors in order to cohesively integrate renewables and have a great impact, as well as to ensure that sustainability and clean energy become driving factors in the future of our electricity systems. There is still work left to do, but… Canada is on its way toward a bright and renewable future.