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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.

Critical Minerals on Prince Edward Island, Canada, and the Energy Transition
Prince Edward Island Critical Minerals and The Energy Transition

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.

LithoX | Critical Minerals and the Global Energy Transition

The global energy transition to net zero is underway. Who is leading? How are supply chains being secured? How do the geopolitics vary? SFA (Oxford) provides a global overview of critical minerals, policy and legislation.

North America

North America's rich lithium, copper, and nickel deposits are pivotal for the energy transition, fueling battery technology and renewable energy sectors. The US and Canada's advanced economies drive substantial investment in sustainable extraction and processing technologies, enhancing reliable sourcing for the 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

Dr Sandeep Kaler

Market Strategy Analyst

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