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By Rick Smith

Though the federal election is sucking up a lot of oxygen these days, the developing discussion regarding the modernization of Alberta’s electricity generation is also gaining steam.

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As it should.

Make no mistake — the accelerated phase-out of coal-fired power plants is a historic important opportunity not to be missed.

Yes, such a move would signal to the world an Alberta ready to join the global movement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle climate change. But it would also signal to Albertans that their government takes seriously the province’s poor air quality and the related byproducts of negative health impacts and economic costs.

When the Alberta climate advisory panel meets Tuesday in Calgary to consult with the public and technical stakeholders on “economywide approaches for reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” the issue of an accelerated coal-phase out will continue to be a focal point.