Quebec has embarked on an ambitious journey to revolutionize its economy and combat climate change with its “2030 Plan for a Green Economy.” This plan serves as the province’s primary policy framework for electrification and climate action. With an annual update mechanism, it ensures the government can adapt to the evolving economic context and advances in knowledge and technology.

The plan outlines a five-pronged approach: aggressively pursuing electrification, building a future-proof economy with a focus on electric vehicles and batteries, adapting to climate impacts on infrastructure and ecosystems, creating a conducive environment for climate transition through community engagement, and accelerating knowledge development.

Quebec’s strategy is not just about mitigating climate change but also about seizing the economic opportunities that come with the transition to a green economy. The strategy recognizes the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic but also sees them as a catalyst for economic recovery, job creation, and innovation.

By placing electrification at the forefront and supporting the shift with renewable energies, Quebec sets an example of how regional governments can take decisive action toward a sustainable future, all while ensuring their communities are informed, involved, and resilient to the changes ahead.

Quebec’s energy production is globally recognized for its minimal carbon impact, with over 99.8% of its electricity coming from renewable sources, primarily hydropower. The provincial government is prioritizing the electrification of transit systems, infrastructure, and manufacturing, aiming to supplant fossil fuels with locally generated sustainable energy, thereby cutting greenhouse gas emissions and spurring regional economic growth. 

With plans to export surplus electricity, Quebec is poised to become a green power reservoir for northeastern North America, contributing to wider emission reductions. Furthermore, Quebec is expanding its renewable portfolio to include bioenergy, green hydrogen, and renewable natural gas, thereby reinforcing its global reputation for clean energy expertise.

Quebec’s 12 Strategic Targets:

1. Reduce GHG emissions by 37.5% below 1990 levels by 2030. 
2. Achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. 
3. Have 2 million electric vehicles on the road in Québec by 2030. 
4. No sales of new gasoline-powered cars and passenger trucks vehicles as of 2035.
5. 55% of city buses and 65% of school buses will be electrified by 2030.
6. 100% of governmental cars, SUVs, vans and minivans and 25% of pickup trucks will be electrified in 2030.
7. 15% low-carbon content in gasoline and 10% in diesel fuel by 2030 
8. 50% reduction of emissions related to heating for buildings by 2030.
9. 60% reduction in emissions from government buildings by 2030.
10. 10% renewable natural gas (RNG) in the network in 2030.
11. 50% increase in bioenergy production by 2030.
12. 70% of off-grid systems’ energy supply will be from renewable sources by 2025.