The Renewable Energy Technologies Program (RETP) supports the continued improvement of the economics and efficiency of renewable energy technologies. Technologies include: bioenergy (combustion, biochemical conversion of biomass to ethanol, thermochemical conversion of biomass to bio-oil and biogas, and biomass preparation and handling); small hydro projects (less than 20 megawatts); active solar applications; and wind energy.
Canada is a world leader in the production of renewable energy, with about 18 per cent of its primary energy supply coming mainly from two sustainable sources: water (12 per cent) and biomass (6 per cent). Emerging renewable energy sources such as wind power and solar energy, both for heating and electricity generation, are rapidly gaining in importance and acceptance by utilities and industry.
R&D priorities are set in close consultation with industry in order to meet its needs. Most research falls within the short- to medium-term and is conducted through cost-shared agreements. Technology transfer is also a key component, with workshops and seminars helping to raise industry's awareness of new technologies. Technical support and advice is provided to industry associations and government programs that promote the increased use of renewable energy.
Stakeholders in the energy industry, such as manufacturers, developers, consultants, utilities, provincial governments and other federal departments are all eligible. Some of the criteria include:
- innovativeness;
- environmental impact;
- societal benefits; and
- contributions toward meeting Canada's clean energy requirements.
Contact:
Mark Riley
Natural Resources Canada
Tel.: 613-996-8151
E-mail: Mark.Riley@NRCan-RNCan.gc.ca
Web Site: www.cetc.nrcan.gc.ca