Canada and US discuss bilateral energy cooperation

On 14 January, Greg Rickford, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources, concluded his second official visit to Washington, D.C. to further enhance bilateral energy cooperation. Minister Rickford and Dr Ernest Moniz, US Secretary of Energy, met for the fifth time to renew engagement related to substantial milestones already achieved in their discussions, including:

• Signing a Memorandum of Understanding launching an agreement on 11 areas of enhanced energy collaboration.
• Canada hosting the a session of the United States' Quadrennial Energy Review (QER) — the only consultation of industry and subject matter experts of its kind held outside of the US.
• New measures aligned with G7 priorities in support of Ukraine, including Canada – US support for Ukraine's efforts in contingency planning; outreach activities on oil and gas regulatory frameworks; and a plan to share expertise in energy efficiency techniques.
• The issuance of a presidential permit for the United States' portion of a 540 km Quebec–New York hydro line that could supply 10% of New York City's electricity demand.
• Canada, the US and Mexico formalising a strategy for a more secure, integrated North American energy approach, enhancing our collective global competitive advantage.

They also signed an Implementing Arrangement for Collaboration in Nuclear Science and Technology. This new agreement will allow Canadian scientists to collaborate with their American colleagues on a range of nuclear science and technology issues, stimulating innovation. Minister Rickford and Secretary Moniz committed to meeting again in the coming months.

The Minister also met with Fred Upton (R-MI), Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Minister Rickford met with senior members of Congress including Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), SenatorAngus King (I-ME) and Representative Kevin Cramer (R-ND) to advance Canada–United States cooperation on a range of energy issues and shared interests in greater energy security, jobs and environmental sustainability.

Minister Rickford highlighted the benefits of the Keystone XL pipeline — a responsibility that falls under the purview of the US Secretary of State. He met with senior officials from the Department of State during his visit and was updated on next steps for approval of the project.

Adapted from press release by Rosalie Starling

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