Pembina Institute

The Pembina Institute, also known as the Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development, is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions and reducing the environmental impact of energy production. Founded in 1985, the institute is headquartered in Drayton Valley, Alberta, and operates with a presence in major cities including Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver.

Mission

The Pembina Institute's primary mission is to support Canada's transition to a clean energy future by advocating for effective policies that promote renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. The organization works to ensure that Canada's energy future is economically viable, environmentally sustainable, and benefits all communities.

Origin

The Pembina Institute was established in response to the 1981 Lodgepole sour gas accident in Alberta, which highlighted concerns about environmental safety and the need for more stringent regulations. This incident galvanized a group of Albertans who sought to improve environmental protection and energy development practices.

Key Areas of Focus

• Clean Energy Transition: The institute emphasizes the importance of moving away from fossil fuels and towards cleaner energy sources such as wind and solar power.
• Oil & Gas Sector: It focuses on reducing emissions from the oil and gas sector, which is one of Canada's largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions.
• Transportation: The organization advocates for policies that promote carbon-free transportation options.
• Building Efficiency: It supports policies to make buildings more energy-efficient and resilient.
• Equitable Transition: The Pembina Institute ensures that the transition to a net-zero economy is inclusive and provides opportunities for all communities.
• Remote Communities: It works on transitioning remote communities away from diesel fuels towards healthier and more sustainable energy sources.

Policy Advocacy

The Pembina Institute uses research, analysis, and communication to inform and advocate for policies supporting sustainable energy use. It supports carbon pricing measures, such as the carbon tax, and encourages governments to implement stronger climate actions.

Legal Cases

In notable legal cases, the Pembina Institute has challenged government decisions, such as the environmental assessment of the Kearl Tar Sands Project. In these efforts, it often collaborates with other organizations to ensure that environmental impacts are adequately assessed.

Tools and Initiatives

The organization develops and utilizes tools like the Energy Policy Simulator to help analysts and policymakers evaluate different energy futures and strategies for achieving a net-zero economy. This tool allows users to model various scenarios involving new technologies and policy interventions.

Overall, the Pembina Institute is a leading voice in Canada's clean energy transition, committed to shaping policies and practices that support a sustainable and prosperous future for all Canadians.