Climate Change Paradox: Why Environmentalists Must Embrace "Dirty" Hydro and Nuclear Power

Strategic Insights -

Canada has made significant strides in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, thanks in large part to its balanced energy portfolio, which relies on abundant hydro and nuclear power. However, environmental groups are opposing efforts to upgrade nuclear plants, develop new hydro resources, and export Quebec hydro to the United States, citing concerns about carbon emissions. But as the world grapples with climate change, it's imperative that we recognize the role of hydro and nuclear power in the transition to cleaner energy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Canada generates 65% of its electricity from renewables, mainly hydro and solar, and 15% from nuclear power.
  • In Ontario, nuclear power accounts for 62% of the electricity mix due to the closure of coal-fired plants.
  • The Sierra Club of Canada is fighting the $8.8-billion Site C dam in British Columbia, despite it being a clean source of renewable energy.
  • Hydro-Quebec estimates that lifetime emissions from hydro projects are roughly the same as wind and less than solar power.
  • The Sierra Club of New Hampshire is leading a campaign to block the $1.6-billion (U.S.) Northern Pass transmission line, which would transport Quebec hydroelectricity to markets in Massachusetts and Connecticut.
  • Canada's nuclear capacity is set to double, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 10 times as much as stricter U.S. and European fuel standards.

Statistics:

  • 65% of Canada's electricity comes from renewables, mainly hydro and solar.
  • 15% of Canada's electricity comes from nuclear power.
  • In Ontario, nuclear power accounts for 62% of the electricity mix.
  • The Site C dam is estimated to mitigate the growth in greenhouse gas emissions by substantially reducing the discharge of carbon.
  • Hydro-Quebec estimates that lifetime emissions from hydro projects are roughly the same as wind and less than solar power.
  • 78% of Massachusetts' power is generated from fossil fuels.
  • 50% of Connecticut's power is generated from fossil fuels.
  • Canada's nuclear capacity is set to double, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 10 times as much as stricter U.S. and European fuel standards.

Sources:

  • Barrie McKenna, "The dirty secret of clean energy", The Globe and Mail, November 2015
  • Hydro-Quebec, "Hydroelectric Power"
  • Sierra Club Canada, "Site C Dam"
  • Quebec government, "Northern Pass transmission line"
  • U.S. Energy Information Administration, "Massachusetts and Connecticut energy overview"
  • World Nuclear Association, "Canada's Nuclear Industry"