The cost and reliability of electricity in Alberta are growing concerns as aging electricity infrastructure, increased grid congestion and increasing regularity of extreme weather events take their toll. Canadian innovators are responding with decentralised solutions that improve the technical and economic performance of our grids. Community-integrated energy systems, data-enabled demand response, and advanced controls and automation are key areas of innovation that can address concerns related to electricity affordability and reliability. This presentation provides a glimpse into the role that decentralised energy plays in Alberta's energy future.

The energy transition can improve efficiency, reliability and affordability. Four important federal developments include the clean electricity standard, the critical minerals strategy, Canada’s new 2030 emissions reduction plan, and 2020 model codes. A just transition includes workforce retooling, diversity and inclusion, and community engagement. A net-zero economy can create new opportunities for workers and their communities – providing sustainable jobs in every region. With electrification expected to double or triple over next decade there is already fierce competition for highly skilled talent.

Decentralised energy presents a practical pathway to a decarbonised energy economy. There are several benefits including resiliency, resource efficiency and emissions reductions. However, there are optimal system conditions that must exist to achieve and maintain these advantages. It is important to acknowledge that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for the diverse needs of Canadian communities. Optimal decentralised energy systems are heavily dependent on local conditions and all types of energy generation have unique challenges.

The world is transitioning to a decentralised energy model and Canada is well down the path of integrating energy generation into the built environment. The primary driver behind this transition is the high cost and limited capabilities of centralised transmission connected power. Transmission infrastructure is expensive and its unidirectional behavior cannot meet the volatile demands of modern consumers.