Minister touts biomass, smart grid in Houston

Speaking to approximately 200 delegates representing 15 countries,
Minister Oliver focused on issues related to energy security and
prosperity, and highlighted Canada’s position as a secure, responsible,
reliable and competitive supplier of energy.

“Canada’s vast energy endowments of oil, gas, hydro and uranium,
along with an innovative clean energy sector, provide us with a unique
advantage — one that strengthens our role as a safe and secure global
energy supplier,” said Minister Oliver. “We welcome international
investment because it is good for our economy, for our jobs and for our
energy future.”

Minister Oliver reaffirmed the Government of Canada’s commitment to
ensuring the environmentally and socially responsible development of the
oil sands, a strategic resource that is critically important to Canada
and its energy partners. He noted Canada's energy policy is rooted in
free market principles, coupled with a regulatory regime that is
"efficient, transparent and effective."

“Canada is a responsible and reliable partner in achieving a secure
and sustainable global energy supply. We are fully mindful of the need
to balance economic activity and energy demand with environmental
sustainability,” the Minister added. “The Government of Canada is
committed to the development of our energy resources, including the oil
sands, in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.”

Minister Oliver also underscored the important role that emerging
clean energy technologies, such as smart grid and biomass technologies,
will play in the world energy system.

 “The world’s energy economy is in a period of transition, moving
from conventional to unconventional sources of energy,” said Minister
Oliver. “Canada is at the forefront of this transition. We are not only a
reliable, secure supplier of energy but are also developing
cutting-edge technologies to diversify our energy mix and reduce
greenhouse gas emissions.”