This release was issued under a previous government.

The premiers discussed climate change and energy infrastructure.  Alberta’s and Manitoba’s actions and leadership on climate change have advanced the national dialogue on important infrastructure projects such as hydroelectricity transmission and pipelines.  The premiers agreed that Canada’s energy infrastructure must be built in an environmentally responsible and safe way. 

The premiers also discussed the ongoing work on missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, and exchanged views on the importance of current negotiations toward a renewed Agreement on Internal Trade. 

Following their meeting, the premiers signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to further co-operation on their shared goals of greenhouse-gas emission reductions, innovation, energy efficiency and renewable energy development including hydroelectricity.

“Manitoba is a Canadian leader in renewable hydroelectricity and energy efficiency, but we know there is much more we can do to reduce our carbon footprint, and grow our economy and create green jobs. Alberta has shown admirable leadership in its new climate-change plan with a focus on developing more renewable energy and reducing greenhouse-gas emissions. Working together we have an opportunity to build on our shared goals. Alberta’s climate leadership plan places the conversation on Energy East in an improved context as the country moves toward a low-carbon future.”

Greg Selinger, Premier of Manitoba

“Alberta is proud to be taking action on climate change, with a truly groundbreaking plan that includes phasing out coal-fired electricity generation and increasing the focus on energy conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy.  We know we can achieve even more by working with other Canadian jurisdictions on shared priorities. Our partnership with Manitoba will help support greener jobs, cleaner energy and a healthier prosperity for all Canadians.”

Rachel Notley, Premier of Alberta

The MOU includes a commitment to share information and develop co-operative measures related to energy conservations programs, renewable energy development and greenhouse-gas reduction policies.  It also emphasizes the importance of improving integration of electrical grids in western Canada to open up economic opportunities, improve energy reliability and resiliency, and continue transition to a lower-carbon economy.