Articles from Le Devoir - Actualités

Despite Donald Trump's attempts to prioritize fossil fuels, the clean energy sector continues to grow. Investments in renewable technologies have surpassed those in fossil fuels, with notable increases in Texas, a Republican state. While Trump's proposed tariffs might affect some supply chains, domestic investments in clean energy remain strong. Solar and storage projects are expected to lead new electrical capacity additions in the U.S. in the coming years.

The article examines the benefits and challenges of real estate investments among friends or family without a legal agreement. It highlights the importance of formalizing these partnerships to address tasks, governance, and investor exit. Although not mandatory, an undivided co-ownership or shareholder agreement can prevent legal and relational issues.

Chinese President Xi Jinping invited Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to visit China, signaling improved relations between the two nations. This meeting in Gyeongju at the APEC summit marked their first bilateral talks since 2017, coinciding with heightened trade tensions with the US. Xi Jinping expressed readiness to collaborate in restoring relations after past commercial and diplomatic disputes.

The ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, known as the 'Davos of the desert', brings together heads of state and investors to promote megaprojects and artificial intelligence. The forum aims to reduce Saudi Arabia's oil dependency and attract foreign investments. Despite ambitious projects like Neom, budget discipline is emphasized amid falling oil prices. The development of artificial intelligence is also a focus, with anticipated partnerships with American tech companies.

The U.S. government will invest $80 billion in building new nuclear reactors in collaboration with Westinghouse Electric Company. This initiative is part of a nuclear industry revival driven by the increasing energy demands of data centers. The announcement is part of a broader strategy for energy diversification, following recent market tensions. This project highlights a shift in attitude towards nuclear energy in the U.S., despite previous challenges faced by the sector.

Isabelle Demers, a mayoral candidate in Lévis, staunchly supports building a third link to ease traffic between Lévis and Québec, even with high costs and Québec's opposition. She criticizes the CAQ for lacking commitment and suggests alternatives like expanding Highway 20. Demers pledges to adhere to a strict financial framework while limiting the city's debt without encroaching on agricultural land.

Rimouski is experiencing a residential construction boom, with 1,200 apartments under development to address housing shortages. The current administration, led by Guy Caron, has been instrumental in implementing social and affordable housing programs. With aging infrastructure, the city is looking to finance upgrades through new taxes and is now focusing on transportation accessibility. These issues are significant in the local electoral dynamics ahead of the upcoming municipal elections.

A controversial real estate project in Rimouski, which would encroach on a wooded area, has been sidelined due to an excess of housing being constructed elsewhere in the city. Although deemed less urgent, the project remains on hold for possible future housing needs. Previously, the project faced strong public opposition. The municipality plans to focus on downtown densification in its next urban plan.

The new segment of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) linking downtown Montreal to Deux-Montagnes will open on November 17. This expansion will add 14 stations to the existing network and will include three connections to the Montreal metro. The project faced several delays due to the complexity of work in the Mount Royal tunnel. Total project costs are estimated at $9.4 billion.

Quebec's battery sector is facing significant setbacks due to halted projects by Northvolt, GM and POSCO, and Vale SA's withdrawal. These issues are part of a global structural crisis in the battery industry. Additionally, political changes in Newfoundland and Labrador threaten a crucial energy agreement with Quebec. Nonetheless, the Quebec government remains optimistic about the sector's future.

Quebec's lumber producers are facing challenges due to additional import taxes imposed by the United States. Already burdened by high tariffs of 35%, an additional 10% levy exacerbates the economic difficulties for these companies. Options being considered include reducing activities or suspending operations. The Canadian domestic market may provide a partial solution, but it is not enough to compensate for current losses.

Prime Minister François Legault supports the energy agreement between Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador after a conservative government election. Newfoundland and Labrador's new Prime Minister, Tony Wakeham, seeks an independent review of the controversial 2024 agreement. The deal raises the price of electricity purchased by Hydro-Québec and includes additional hydroelectric projects. Former Liberal leader John Hogan defends it, anticipating it will generate $225 billion for the province over 50 years.