Prince Edward Island
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition on Prince Edward Island, Canada
On the eastern seaboard of Canada, Prince Edward Island (PEI) embarks on an enchanting journey towards a sustainable energy future, setting a vivid example of environmental stewardship in action. This small but spirited province leverages its unique geographical advantages and community spirit to harness the power of wind, solar, and biomass, aiming to transform its energy landscape from reliance on imported fossil fuels to a beacon of green energy. PEI's strategy is marked by an innovative embrace of renewable energy technologies, with wind turbines gracefully dotting its rolling hills and solar panels capturing the Atlantic sun. The island's commitment to sustainability extends beyond electricity generation, emphasising energy efficiency in homes and businesses and fostering a conservation culture that resonates with locals and visitors. Supported by forward-thinking policies and a collaborative approach among government, communities, and industry leaders, PEI is not just reducing its carbon footprint but also inspiring a green revolution, demonstrating that even the smallest places can profoundly impact the global stage of climate action.
Prince Edward Island's energy revolution
Prince Edward Island (PEI) is undergoing a significant energy transformation, driven by its commitment to become Canada’s first net-zero province by 2040. The province’s strategy centres on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and innovative clean technologies, supported by federal funding and partnerships with Indigenous communities. PEI’s energy transition is defined by a strong focus on wind and solar power, enhanced energy efficiency, and clean electricity storage.
Wind and solar energy expansion
PEI has one of the highest levels of wind integration in North America, with eight wind farms providing a combined generating capacity of 203 megawatts (MW), supplying approximately 19.4% of the province’s electricity. Projects like the Summerside Wind Farm and West Cape Wind Farm are key contributors. Solar energy is also growing, with the 21 MW Sunbank solar farm and storage facility in Summerside reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 8,120 tonnes annually and powering over 2,500 homes.
Energy Efficiency and Conservation
PEI is a leader in energy efficiency programs, particularly for low-income households. Initiatives like the Winter Warming Program and Charlottetown Low-Income Financial and Technical Assistance Program provide free energy-efficient upgrades, including insulation, heat pumps, and LED lighting. The province’s 2022-2025 Electricity Efficiency & Conservation Plan aims to deliver 34.45 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of net energy savings, building on previous successes.
Clean electricity and storage
PEI is scaling up renewable energy production and storage to meet growing demand. The Slemon Park Microgrid Project and Summerside Solar Energy Farm & Battery Storage Facility are examples of innovative storage solutions, reducing reliance on diesel and fossil fuels. The province is also exploring new transmission connections to enhance energy security.
Federal and indigenous collaboration
The Canada-Prince Edward Island Regional Energy and Resource Table supports PEI’s net-zero goal through federal-provincial collaboration and Indigenous partnerships. Projects like the Na'ku'set Park Capacity Building Project and Mainland Transmission Connection Study are funded by the federal government, focusing on clean electricity, fuels, and technology innovation.
Economic and environmental benefits
PEI’s energy transition is expected to create jobs, reduce energy costs, and lower emissions. The province has already reduced fossil fuel demand by 4.5%, one of the highest rates in Canada. Programs like the Canada Greener Homes Grant and Solar Electric Rebate Program further support homeowners in adopting renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies.
Source: SFA (Oxford)
Essential minerals production and products on Prince Edward Island
The journey of Canada's critical minerals
Canada's renewable energy progress hinges on crucial minerals like lithium, nickel and cobalt, PGMs, rare earths, and minor metals, essential for low carbon and future technologies supported by sustainable mining and innovation policies. This strategy underscores the importance of these minerals in achieving a future of sustainability and energy security. Discover how these critical minerals are pivotal to Canada's sustainable energy transition.
Meet the Critical Minerals team
Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.
Henk de Hoop
Chief Executive Officer
Beresford Clarke
Managing Director: Technical & Research
Jamie Underwood
Principal Consultant
Ismet Soyocak
ESG & Critical Minerals Lead
Rj Coetzee
Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies
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