September 28, 2016

A sustainable energy labour market assessment for southern Alberta is near completion thanks to a partnership between Alberta Labour, the Economic Development Alliance (EDA) of Southeast Alberta and Medicine Hat College (MHC). The study will provide an overview of the impact of renewables from a community, regional and business perspective as well as outline employment opportunities.

The findings of this report will be shared at a sustainable energy conference at the college next March.

“This is an important project that will help employers, communities and Albertans prepare for jobs in a more diversified and sustainable economy. Our government is proud to invest in this partnership and in valuable research that will help Albertans identify the skills they need to find new work in our emerging renewable energy sector,” says Christina Gray, Minister of Labour.

With close to 2,000 megawatts of large scale wind and solar projects proposed for southern Alberta, MHC’s business development manager, Tracy Stroud is optimistic about the study outcomes.

“Currently, we are completing interviews with key stakeholders within the industry. From the information we are receiving, we predict there will be a vast number of direct, indirect and induced labour needs identified,” says Stroud. “These projects are sure to have an economic impact, and we are excited to really pinpoint what that is and to start a discussion around how we can support the emerging sustainable energy sector.”

Theresa Hardiker, executive director for the EDA seconds that sentiment, noting that our region is well-positioned to facilitate renewable energy projects.

“With approximately 2,500 hours of sunshine per year supported by abundant natural resources, southeast Alberta is an ideal location for wind, solar and geo-thermal development. This study will be a key document on how the EDA can continue to dedicate resources to growing and expanding business in our region,” says Hardiker.

Details on the conference will be released closer to the event.