The NewsRoom

Natural Resources Canada
2009/108
November 6, 2009

Minister Raitt Hosts National Energy Roundtables

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CALGARY - The Government of Canada is collaborating with key stakeholders to address the best steps forward to advance clean energy research and development in Canada. The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, met today with a diverse group of senior decision-makers in areas such as government, industry, non-governmental organizations and the academic sector. The session was the last of a series of roundtables held in Milton and Ottawa, Ontario, and focused on integrated community energy solutions (ICES) and renewable energy.

Participants contributed to discussions on Canada’s energy future. Focus was directed to cost-competitive renewable energy, investment in new non-fossil fuels technologies for greenhouse gas emissions reductions, and the clean development and consumption of fossil fuel.

“Our Government is collaborating with key stakeholders to help ensure that Canada remains a global leader in clean energy while continuing to advance energy efficiency,” said Minister Raitt. “These discussions have allowed for significant progress in achieving this goal, and we must keep this momentum going.”

Highlights of each national roundtable will be compiled into reports and shared with members of governments and stakeholders in ongoing discussions on Canada’s energy future. These reports will be available on Natural Resources Canada’s Web site in the coming weeks.

Minister Raitt announced the creation of the roundtables in early September at the Council of Energy and Mines Ministers’ meeting in Newfoundland and Labrador. These roundtable discussions are a step toward meeting the Government’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the supply of clean, renewable energy in Canada.

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FOR BROADCAST USE:

Natural Resources Minister Lisa Raitt today held a national roundtable on clean energy research and development. Over the past two weeks, Minister Raitt also hosted roundtable discussions on integrated community energy solutions and renewable energy, which will help to ensure that key energy stakeholders play a part in determining the best path forward for Canada’s energy future.

Media may contact:

Jocelyne Turner
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Lisa Raitt
Ottawa
613-996-2007

Or

Media Relations
Natural Resources Canada
Ottawa
613-992-4447

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