Canadian mission on its way to South Africa
High commissioner for Canada to South Africa, Ruth Archibald, said that the prospects for expanded cooperation in the energy sector were excellent. “The Canadian electrical energy industry is highly developed, being both massive in the scale and highly diversified in its capabilities. We have much to offer each other.”
In 2007, Canada generated 107,209 MW of electricity, drawn from about 60% hydro, 20% from hydrocarbons, and 15% from nuclear energy sources. About 3% of CanadaÂ’s current electricity needs were generated by new and renewable technologies, including wind, tidal, and biomass energy.
It was a priority of the Canadian government to develop new and nonconventional sources.
The Canadian industry was also venturous and export-oriented. Canada had a long history of exporting electricity to the U.S., and exporting its capacities and technologies to markets farther afield. Several Canadian energy companies were already established in the broader African continental electricity market and were keen to use the opportunity of this mission to expand their presence in South Africa.
“Canadian companies have proven expertise in the generation, distribution, and transmission of energy and it is my hope that they will be able to develop strategic partnerships with South African companies, and use their expertise to assist South Africa in its efforts to meet the increase in the electricity demand,” said Archibald.
Related News
Quebec and other provinces heading toward electricity shortage: report
MONTREAL - Quebec and other provinces in central and eastern Canada are heading toward a significant shortage of electricity to respond to the various needs of a transition to renewable energy.
This is according to Polytechnique Montréal’s Institut de l’énergie Trottier, which published a report titled A Strategic Perspective on Electricity in Central and Eastern Canada last week.
The white paper says that at the current rate, most provinces will be incapable of meeting the electricity needs created by the increase in the number of electric vehicles and the decarbonization of building heating by 2030. “The situation worsens if we consider carbon…
