Cement Association of Canada welcomes Alberta’s output-based allocation system

The Cement Association of Canada has welcomed the publication of the Alberta government’s overarching policy framework for the output-based allocation system (OBAS).

The new system marks a step change from the current Specified Gas Emitters Regulation (SGER) in the state. The OBAS will set an industry-specific performance benchmark for emissions-intensive, trade-exposed industries (EITEs). This includes the province's two cement plants, the Lafarge Canada-run works in Exshaw and the Lehigh’s Edmonton plant. Combined with output-based allocations, the benchmark will drive best-in-class performance while maintaining the competitiveness of industries in Alberta.

"The cement industry applauds the Alberta government for their 18-month collaborative consultation process as part of the Output-based Allocation System Engagement, and we are happy to have been a convener for several of these sessions," says President and CEO of the Cement Association of Canada, Michael McSweeney.  "From the cement industry's perspective, today's framework demonstrates that the Alberta government understands the pressures EITE industries face to remain competitive in the global market. Climate change is the single most important issue facing our society today and Alberta's Climate Leadership Plan lays the foundation for industries to play a major role in assisting government in meeting its 2030 targets and transitioning to a low carbon economy. The cement industry in Alberta is a leader in innovation, and we look forward to engaging the province in keeping our industry competitive while fostering further innovation to lower our environmental footprint."