Ottawa Backs Down on Net-Zero Power Grid Target of 2035; Alberta to Continue Court Challenge

The federal government has revised its clean electricity regulations, moving the deadline for a net-zero power grid from 2035 to 2050. The shift is vindication of Alberta’s long-standing position that 2050 is a more realistic and achievable target.

In a joint statement, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf, and Minister of Environment Rebecca Schulz expressed relief at what they described as Ottawa’s acknowledgment of Alberta’s approach. “We are gratified to see Ottawa finally admit that Alberta’s plan for a carbon-neutral power grid by 2050 is more responsible, affordable, and realistic,” the statement read.

However, Alberta’s government remains critical of the federal regulations, describing them as unconstitutional for infringing on provincial jurisdiction over electricity. They plan to challenge the rules in court, citing concerns about federally mandated interim targets starting in 2035, which they argue will lead to unaffordable energy costs for Canadians.

The statement also urged Ottawa to abandon its clean electricity regulations entirely, proposing that the federal government leave Alberta to govern its power grid independently.