Science and Technology

Energy science and technology is jointly managed by two sectors of Natural Resources Canada: the Office of Energy Research and Development (OERD) of the Energy Sector (which manages research and development and demonstration funding programs) and CanmetENERGY of the Innovation and Energy Technology Sector (which is the principal federal performer of energy R&D).

CanmetENERGY is the Canadian leader in clean energy research and technology development. With over 450 scientists, engineers and technicians and more than 100 years of experience, it is Canada's knowledge centre for scientific expertise on clean energy technologies. CanmetENERGY works with industry, academia, utilities, associations, non governmental organizations and other governments to research, develop and demonstrate energy-efficient, alternative and renewable energy technologies, fuels and processes.

The Office of Energy Research and Development (OERD) is the Government of Canada's co-ordinator of energy research and development activities. OERD is responsible for the Program of Energy Research and Development (PERD), which supports the energy R&D activities of 13 federal departments, including the four science sectors of Natural Resources Canada; the ecoENERGY Technology Initiative; the Clean Energy Fund, and the ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative. OERD also coordinates Canada's involvement in international energy R&D activities. OERD engages with all its partner departments and agencies in developing strategies and programs in energy R&D.

Three other sectors of NRCan - Earth Science Sector, Minerals and Metals Sector and the Canadian Forest Service - also conduct energy research and development in specific areas.