Manitoba introduces plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050; critics say it lacks detail

Manitoba has released its plan to get to net zero emissions by 2050.

It’s a broad overview that the environment minister is touting as practical and ambitious.

“The move to net zero means we can reduce our reliance on imported fossil fuels and instead use more Manitoba-made renewable energy,” said Manitoba Minister of Environment and Climate Change Mike Moyes.

Moyes highlighted a climate change cabinet, new legislation, work with Indigenous nations, agriculture supports, an EV charging network and other priorities in the 32-page document.

The project director of Climate Change Connection says it’s an important step.

“Manitoba’s path to net zero isn’t yet a finished plan but it contains a powerful promise,” said Curt Hull.

“Our summers are getting hotter, our storms more intense.”

But others are worried about delays in investment amid the climate crisis and the lack of detail in the plan.

“We were hoping for a bit more detail in this strategy,” said Laura Cameron, the director of program and strategy at Manitoba’s Climate Action Team (CAT). “It’s a bit high level, so the progress will be seen with the action plans.”

CityNews asked Minister Moyes when Manitobans will see the province’s action plans with detailed targets and initiatives. He did not give any timelines, and said those will vary.

Meanwhile, Premier Wab Kinew hopes the new pathway will guide Manitoba Hydro, which has been looking at both wind energy and fuel-burning stations to meet increasing demand.

“We’re putting those constraints, some would say opportunities or guidelines on Manitoba Hydro to say as you plan for the next decade of energy use in Manitoba, you got to make sure it’s affordable for the average person out there and you got to make sure it’s environmentally friendly,” the premier said.

This comes as Hydro showed a loss of $63 million in the last fiscal year. But Premier Kinew says he needs to get Manitobans on board with environmental initiatives by first keeping hydro rates affordable.

“If people can’t drive to work today to keep the lights on and to keep food on the table, the other stuff’s not going to happen,” Kinew said.

“We need every Manitoban to take pride in this collective effort,” added Hull.