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.

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.

The growth of renewable energy is slowing, jeopardizing the goal of tripling global capacity by 2030, as set during COP28. Although wind and solar have surpassed coal in global electricity share, policy changes in the US and China are hindering further expansion. Growth prospects remain positive in India, Europe, and other emerging regions. The International Energy Agency will adjust its global forecasts, while raising expectations for certain key markets.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to meet with US President Donald Trump to discuss the upcoming revision of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). This meeting is amid ongoing trade tensions, including US tariffs on certain Canadian products. Talks will focus on economic and security relations between the two countries. No significant progress has been made since their last meeting, though negotiations are ongoing.

Government documents reveal that Canada's housing situation is alarming. High rents are impacting the most vulnerable households and are also detrimental to the national economy.

The United States has decided to increase tariffs on Canadian lumber, a move that Canadian companies say will harm communities on both sides of the border. This action is seen as an escalation in trade tensions between the two countries, potentially impacting the construction industry that relies on affordable lumber. The decision may lead to increased costs for construction projects, affecting both commercial and residential sectors.

The construction sector is expressing concerns over rising costs linked to tariffs, especially following the return of Trump. Six months into his return, uncertainties remain about costs and supply chain timelines. Stakeholders are worried about the unpredictability that could impact project budgets and schedules.

The article discusses the adoption of Bill C-5, which focuses on large-scale government projects backed by the Carney administration. The legislation has drawn significant criticism due to the extensive powers it grants the government. Critics are concerned about the implications these powers may have on project oversight and governance. The bill's impact on future large-scale infrastructure projects could be significant.

The federal bill concerning major projects in Canada is expected to be passed by the end of the week. It's moving forward under expedited proceedings and receives support from the Conservative party. The speed of its adoption indicates a political consensus on the need for new regulations in handling large-scale developments.

Unions and employers are engaging in mediation on the second day of a construction strike. This meeting might not directly advance the negotiations. The ongoing discussions highlight the complexity of reaching an agreement between the parties involved.