By Eli J. Ridder

BUSINESS

City of Medicine Hat, in partnership with others, launch energy innovation challenge

May 10, 2024 | 2:28 PM

The City of Medicine Hat has partnered with Decentralised Energy Canada to launch a new initiative aimed at empowering small and medium-sized Canadian businesses.

The Energy Innovation Challenge will pilot innovations that address grid congestion issues and leverage government investment and private capital to strengthen the economy, according to a Friday news release.

“This program is timely, important and may contribute to solving energy problems that can impact Albertans,” said Decentralised Energy Canada president Anouk Kendall.

“The cost and reliability of electricity in Alberta are growing concerns as aging electricity infrastructure, increased grid congestion and increasing regularity of extreme weather events take their toll.”

It’s unclear how much of the program’s funding came from the city.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

18h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

Dec 12, 2024

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

Medicine Hat Coun. Darren Hirsch, chair the city’s energy, land and environment committee, credited the innovative spirit of the community’s original settlers as early adopters of natural gas electricity generation.

“One of the top priorities for Medicine Hat’s City Council is to carefully consider energy transition as we face the reality of a changing energy market directed by Clean Electricity Regulations,” Hirsch said.

“The growing demand for electrification requires stable generation and distribution infrastructure to safely and sustainably power our homes, businesses, and facilities. ”

“The Energy Innovation Challenge provides the opportunity to propel innovative ideas and emerging technology through the most difficult stage of development so we can move towards viable solutions in Alberta’s energy future, opening the door for new pioneers whose technology may formulate the energy story we’ll be telling for the next century.”