Canada and Manitoba are joining forces to fund a series of environmentally-friendly initiatives aimed at supporting renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating jobs.
On Thursday, Kevin Lamoureux, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg North, unveiled a funding commitment of up to $38.2 million to support both the Efficient Trucking Program and Manitoba’s merit-based program.
The Efficient Trucking Program in Canada is receiving an additional $3.6 million from the Government of Canada, building on a previous investment made in 2019. The program aims to support the adoption of fuel-saving devices and technologies for heavy-duty vehicles or trailers. In addition to the government’s contribution, the Manitoba Government will provide up to $3.3 million while Manitoba’s trucking sector will contribute $6.6 million to the program.
This funding injection aims to provide substantial support to the Efficient Trucking Program, which promotes the adoption of fuel-efficient technologies in the trucking industry. It also extends assistance to Manitoba’s merit-based program, which likely focuses on rewarding or incentivizing exceptional performance or achievements.
With this funding, the government aims to strengthen both programs, fostering sustainability and innovation within the transportation sector. The specific allocation of funds and how they will be utilized within each program was not detailed in the announcement.
“Reducing the carbon footprint of the trucking sector is crucial to successfully attaining Manitoba’s carbon reduction goals,” said Kevin Klein, Minister of Environment and Climate for Manitoba.
“By partnering with the federal government, we can transition more vehicles and industries from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Manitoba will continue to lead the way in the development of a cleaner, greener economy.”
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Programs reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Through the Efficient Trucking Program, eligible applicants can receive rebates of up to 50 percent of the cost of installed fuel-saving devices or technologies. By reopening the program and providing further financial support, the transportation sector in Manitoba will be able to continue reducing carbon pollution.
The trucking industry is a significant contributor to Manitoba’s economy, directly and indirectly contributing over $2 billion to the province’s gross domestic product. Additionally, the industry plays a crucial role in employment, directly and indirectly employing approximately 4.6 percent of Manitoba’s labour force.
It is estimated that by the year 2030, this program will contribute to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by up to 120,000 tonnes, which is the equivalent to saving about 51 million litres of gasoline consumed in a year.
The Efficient Trucking Program is managed by Red River College Polytechnic’s Vehicle Technology and Energy Centre, which plays a key role in delivering the program and supporting the adoption of energy-efficient technologies in the trucking industry.
The Government of Canada is also investing $25 million in Manitoba’s merit-based funding program, while the province is contributing $6.25 million to support this initiative. The program is delivered by the Manitoba Climate and Green Plan Implementation Office, and it is open to various eligible recipients, including municipalities, government entities, industry, Indigenous communities and not-for-profit organizations.
The investment also supports competition in the industry. The merit-based program aims to enhance the competitiveness of industries in Manitoba by encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices and technologies. By providing financial support, it helps businesses and industries embrace environmentally responsible strategies, ensuring their long-term viability and success.
Furthermore, it improves energy efficiency and reduces energy costs. Another focus of the program is to improve energy efficiency across various sectors. By funding projects that prioritize energy-efficient measures, it aims to reduce energy consumption, lower energy costs, and promote sustainable resource management.
Projects funded through the merit-based program aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by supporting initiatives that facilitate the transition from fossil fuel combustion to renewable energy sources. These also promote clean growth and spur green job creation by fostering sustainable environmentally friendly practices.
A few examples of these types of technologies include green hydrogen, lithium-hydroxide production for battery metals. The demand for electric vehicles (EV) is especially noteworthy here as global EV sales broke records in 2021 with 6.6 million vehicles, according to a report from the International Energy Agency. This marked a doubling of EV sales compared to previous years. Furthermore, the strong growth trajectory continued into 2022, indicating sustained momentum in the adoption and popularity of electric vehicles worldwide.
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