Halia Energy export application to U.S.

Summary#

The Canada Energy Regulator is asking for public comments on an application from Halia Energy LLC to export up to 2,700,000 MWh of electricity a year to the United States for 10 years. Written submissions are due by 9 December 2024, and the applicant may file responses by 24 December 2024.

What it does#

• Halia Energy LLC filed an application on 5 November 2024 under the Canadian Energy Regulator Act to export up to 2,700,000 MWh annually (a mix of firm and interruptible supply) for 10 years.
• The regulator’s Commission is asking interested parties for their views before it decides whether to issue a permit or move the application to a licensing process.
• The Commission specifically wants comments on:
  • whether exporting this electricity would affect provinces other than the one supplying the power, and
  • whether the applicant told people who declared interest in buying electricity for use in Canada, and gave them a chance to buy on terms at least as good as those offered for export.
• How to see or send materials:
  • The application is on the CER website and can also be requested from the applicant by email.
  • Submissions should be filed online (CER’s e-filing) or emailed to the CER; phone help is available. The Secretary of the Commission named in the notice is Ramona Sladic.

Who's affected#

• Electricity market participants such as generators, traders and utilities.
• Provincial governments and regulators, especially those responsible for grid planning and reliability.
• Large industrial and commercial electricity buyers who may have declared interest in buying power for use in Canada.
• Consumers could be indirectly affected if exports influence local supply or prices.
• The notice does not say which province the power would be exported from, so it’s unclear exactly which provincial market would be most directly affected.

Why it matters#

• Large, long-term exports can influence how much power stays in Canada, which can affect supply, reliability and prices in provincial markets.
• The regulator is asking whether domestic buyers were given a fair chance to buy the electricity before it is exported — that can matter for local businesses and communities.
• This is a chance for provinces, utilities, and interested members of the public to raise concerns or support before the regulator decides.