Albertans Want a Just Transition, Despite Premier’s Grumbling
In early January, Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson announced the federal government would soon be unveiling its highly anticipated legislation for a just transition, including a plan for helping workers and communities in the oil and gas sector shift into renewable energy industries like wind, solar, and energy efficiency.
The announcement https://www.theenergymix.com/2023/01/05/wilkinson-promises-just-transition-bill-in-2023/ triggered immediate reaction from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who declared the yet-to-be released bill shortsighted, ill-conceived, and harmful https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/federal-legislation-net-zero-1.6702333 to Albertans. Environment Minister Sonya Savage added that the term “just transition” was offensive https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/ottawa-just-transition-alberta-environment-1.6704486 and indicative of the federal government turning its back on the oil and gas industry.
However, EcoAnalytics research suggests the Alberta premier and her minister may be out of step with most Albertans on this matter. In a national survey last April, we asked Canadians, including Albertans, how they felt about a transition off oil and gas and, specifically, what they thought of the government supporting a “just” or “fair” transition that would support oil and gas workers moving into new, less polluting jobs and industries. The survey, conducted by Environics for EcoA, showed that Albertans want a transition just as much as other Canadians. Like other Canadians, they want to see action on this issue, now—as they understand the need to move quickly.
Other qualitative research by EcoA last summer examined perceptions, concerns, and barriers to support for a transition to renewable energy. The online focus groups asked participants to discuss the impact on communities of a cap on oil and gas sector emissions and a clean electricity grid. While many felt Canada can’t afford not to adopt those strategies, there was significant concern and empathy for the communities, families, and regions that will be disproportionately affected by a move away from oil and gas.
Canadians, including Albertans, do want a fast transition off oil and gas, but support increase greatly if Wilkinson’s bill details the appropriate funding, resources, and support to make sure the process is right for workers, businesses, and communities. |Read more https://www.theenergymix.com/2023/01/23/albertans-want-a-just-transition-despite-premiers-grumbling/|
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