REGINA, Sep. 9, 2008 -- Canada NewsWire

Energy ministers from governments across Canada wrapped up their annual meeting in Saskatoon today in which they discussed the challenges and opportunities of global energy markets, energy efficiency, energy technology and adaptation to climate change.

Conference Host and Saskatchewan Energy and Resources Minister Bill Boyd said the energy ministers' deliberations proceeded under a broad theme of "social license" in which the "triple bottom line" of economics, environment and community factor into investment decisions on major resource projects.

"Our discussions today were framed by our recognition of Canada's status as a major supplier of energy to global markets, a major contributor to continental energy security and a country with a rich tradition of energy research," Boyd said. "Establishing a new social license with communities for our energy sector is just as important, and that task is what governments and industry have pledged to work on coming out of this meeting."

Boyd said he and his colleagues discussed the recent and unprecedented volatility in global oil markets. While this volatility has presented challenges to Canadians, it has been offset to some degree by the contribution of Canada's diverse energy industries to the country's overall strong economic performance.

Ministers noted that using energy more efficiently is an important way to help Canadians cope with higher prices for all forms of energy. They reviewed a report on energy efficiency coming out of last year's meeting as well as the collaborative actions that multiple jurisdictions are pursuing to help Canadian citizens, businesses and industry make more energy efficient choices. Those actions include co-ordinated approaches on transforming the efficiency of equipment sold in Canada, further progress on codes for buildings and houses, and improved efficiency of large trucks.

Boyd said ministers discussed continuing to share knowledge and best practices around development and commercialization of innovative energy technologies. In that regard they reviewed the potential of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and carbon dioxide capture and storage, the latter a topic in which Saskatchewan has shown leadership.

Finally, the ministers acknowledged the need for increased efforts in preparing Canada's energy sector for the challenges of adapting to climate change.

"We had excellent discussions on our common energy interests and concerns," Boyd said. "While provinces and territories have different energy needs and challenges, there was a general consensus that by working together, we can advance Canada as a model and leader on energy efficiency, clean production of conventional energy, the use of renewable energy and the advancement of new clean energy technologies."

The meeting concluded the second day of the 65th Energy and Mines Ministers Conference, held in Saskatchewan for the first time in 13 years.

SOURCE: Saskatchewan Energy and Resources

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