Calgary Sees Rise in Petroleum Product Sales Amid Environmental Push
Calgary’s consumption of refined petroleum products rose by 0.7% in 2024, reaching 89.6 million cubic metres, according to recent data from Statistics Canada. This increase arrives as the city intensifies its focus on environmental responsibility and the transition to sustainable energy.
The continued reliance on fossil fuels prompts discussion about Calgary's strategies for reducing carbon emissions, especially given the City Council's approval of a Climate Strategy in July 2022, which aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This strategy includes targets for all registered vehicles in Calgary to be zero-emissions by 2050 and for buildings to meet a net-zero standard. Efforts are underway to support this, with initiatives like the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP), launched in 2023, offering financing for homeowners to upgrade to energy-efficient and renewable energy systems.
Despite an observed increase in Calgary Transit ridership, which saw a 21% rise in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, contributing to efforts to reduce transportation emissions, overall petroleum consumption still climbed. These figures underscore the ongoing challenge for Calgary's industry leaders and policymakers to balance economic growth with environmental commitments as the city navigates its complex energy future.
