FOR RELEASE     #07-167
August 9, 2007

WHITEHORSE - Premier Dennis Fentie welcomes the continued support from his colleagues on Northern issues and is pleased that nationally there is recognition of the important role centres of excellence can play in Canada's energy future. "The energy strategy complements Yukon's efforts to develop a Cold Climate Innovation Cluster and a Climate Change Research Centre for the North."

That support came from discussions around the Council of the Federation's seven point energy strategy, A Shared Vision for Energy in Canada.  The strategy was released earlier today from Moncton where the premiers are holding their annual summer meeting.

"Yukon has been actively involved in the work to develop this strategy," Fentie said. The direction for developing a pan-Canadian energy strategy came from a 2005 Council of Federation (CoF) meeting where premiers committed to taking a leadership role in creating innovative energy policies for Canada's future. It recognizes that securing Canada's energy supply and continuing growth from energy resources must be done in an environmentally responsible manner.

In the seven point plan, premiers agreed to take action on energy efficiency, research and technology, renewable/green projects, energy transmission and transportation, regulatory efficiency, human resources/skilled trade, and the provincial/territorial role in international energy activities.

The strategy was accompanied by the release of a set of energy maps highlighting the strength of the energy sector in each province and territory. "The release of the maps provides us with an opportunity to highlight our proven and potential reserves," Fentie said. "In the North, many of our resources have not been fully explored and the potential for additional reserves is significant."

Energy ministers across Canada will now begin work to implement the strategy. "Premiers will report on progress and steps taken to implement the various actions contained in the strategy at upcoming CoF meetings," Fentie said.

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Links: Council of the Federation website & A Shared Vision for Energy in Canada