Results: what we achieved

Programs

Program 1.1: Market Access and Diversification

 

Description

Canada’s natural resource sectors face two key barriers to market access and diversification: 1) trade and policy barriers, and 2) lack of awareness of Canada’s natural resource products and public confidence. The objectives of this program are to break down those barriers and support the development and expansion of markets for Canadian natural resource products by making information available to Canadians, supporting negotiations to reduce trade barriers, and ensuring that regulations are up to date. This helps maintain natural resource sectors’ access to existing markets and increases their access to new market segments.

Results

In 2016-17, the Department delivered a range of policy and outreach activities to make information available to Canadians and bolster public confidence in Canada’s natural resource products in the mining, forestry and energy sectors.

In the energy sector, the Department:

• Collaborated closely with provincial and territorial counterparts to advance priorities under the Canadian Energy Strategy (CES) and to take actions supporting the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF), including joint initiatives on energy efficiency, electricity infrastructure and energy technology and innovation;
• Supported the annual Energy and Mines Ministers’ Conference (EMMC)^[viii] on the theme, “Enhancing Public Confidence in Canada’s Natural Resource Sectors.” EMMC 2016 included ministerial discussions on Indigenous engagement, energy efficiency, innovation, oil and gas, electric reliability, international energy cooperation, regulatory modernization, and pan-Canadian collaboration under the CES; and
• Continued to offer a single window to Indigenous communities to engage with the Government of Canada on west coast energy infrastructure development, recognizing that Indigenous communities are important partners in the development of natural resources.

The Department also participated in activities to reduce trade and policy barriers related to energy in order to increase access to existing and new markets, and support the transition to a low-carbon economy while maintaining competitiveness.

• Given the unique logistical and operational challenges of oil and gas development in the Arctic, NRCan is supporting the Department of Indigenous and Northern Affairs (INAC) to advance conservation in the Arctic offshore. NRCan and INAC began consultations with industry, territorial governments and northern Indigenous groups on the vision for the Arctic offshore and development prospects, including oil and gas, to inform future policy decisions.
• For a strengthened federally regulated pipeline system, NRCan worked to advance a number of new or updated regulations under the new Pipeline Safety Act that came into force in June 2016, including: 
  • Supporting the National Energy Board by updating regulations to strengthen its ability to restrict high-risk  activities, such as construction, near pipelines; and
  • Developing draft regulations, published in the Canada Gazette Part I in the fall of 2016, which set out absolute liability for classes of pipeline operator and associated financial requirements.^{Footnote 2}.
• NRCan supported Transport Canada to advance legislation that will implement the Government’s commitment to formalize a moratorium on crude oil tanker traffic on British Columbia's north coast.
• NRCan advanced discussions with stakeholders on modernizing the regulatory framework for oil and gas operations in Canada’s frontier and offshore areas as well as developing and implementing Offshore Accords. NRCan also continued to advance the modernization of health and safety regulations through amendments to the Offshore Marine Installations and Structures Occupational Health and Safety Transitional Regulations, which were published in the Canada Gazette Part I in December 2016.
• NRCan also managed loan guarantees for the Lower Churchill projects to help provide a stable source of clean energy and economic growth for Atlantic Canada. In 2016-17, the federal government announced that it would guarantee up to an additional $2.9 billion in debt, beyond the existing guarantee of $6.3 billion. As part of its oversight responsibilities, NRCan monitored the release of this guaranteed debt through monthly reviews of project documents and participated in four site visits with the Independent Engineer to ensure projects were on track. NRCan also negotiated the provision of additional loan guarantee support to assist in financing the cost overruns experienced by the projects.^{Footnote 3}

In 2016-17, the Department also helped advance key areas of Canada’s international energy cooperation efforts, in collaboration with Canadian partners.

• NRCan implemented the 2016 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the Climate Change and Energy Collaboration,^ix which expanded and deepened Canada’s energy relationship with the United States and Mexico on energy data, clean energy, infrastructure and Mission Innovation.^x Under this MOU, NRCan and our North American partners developed measures to reduce methane emissions; designed technology roadmaps; conducted infrastructure resilience workshops; launched a trilateral renewable energy integration study; and aligned regulations on energy efficiency. This trilateral cooperation provided a solid foundation for the North America Climate, Clean Energy, and Environment Partnership.
• Key energy partners in North America and Asia, the provinces, territories and Canadian industry were engaged to promote greater access to foreign markets and help build commercial relationships for Canadian business through ministerial dialogues, trade missions and working group meetings in China, India, Mexico and the United States. Ministerial missions, supported by trade delegations with representatives from Canada’s oil and gas, renewables and electricity sectors, have been successful in creating new business partnerships matching Canada’s expertise, technology and resources with the needs of foreign markets. The Department also led the Government of Canada’s international engagement on energy issues across multilateral fora, including the G7 and G20 and at the International Energy Agency, to promote global energy security through trade.
• The Department continued to enhance critical energy infrastructure and cybersecurity in partnership with industry and infrastructure stakeholders by sharing best practices for improved resiliency as well as partnering with Global Affairs Canada to participate in the G7 cybersecurity work stream on energy infrastructure. NRCan also finalized the Joint United States-Canada Electric Grid Security and Resilience Strategy^xi in collaboration with the US Department of Energy, the US Department of Homeland Security and Public Safety Canada, which includes specific actions to mitigate cyber threats.

In the mining sector, NRCan:

• Supported global efforts to prevent trade and deter corruption in 'conflict diamonds' by ensuring Canada’s compliance with its international obligations under the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.^xii In 2016, NRCan issued 242 Kimberley Process Certificates for the export of certified conflict-free rough diamonds, worth more than US$1.4 billion. The Department administered the Export and Import of Rough Diamonds Act (EIRDA) and associated regulations that control the export, import and transit of rough diamonds in Canada. The Department also conducted administrative audits of rough diamond importers and exporters, including one diamond mine, to ensure compliance with the EIRDA;
• Contributed to preserving the image of diamond mining as a socially responsible means to improve the well-being of populations, especially in developing countries. This included participation in the Central African Republic Monitoring Team, which oversaw the resumption of rough diamond exports from that country following a civil war;
• Promoted the Canadian mining industry through presentations and participation at global conferences such as Mining Indaba in South Africa; China Mining in Tianjin; and Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada in Toronto; and
• Expanded awareness of Canada’s positive investment climate through key publications including:
  • The Mining Sector Performance Report for 2006-2015,^xiii which provides Canadians with evidence-based analysis of the mineral industry’s economic, social and environmental performance to help inform the development of priorities and identify areas for improvement; and,
  • The second edition of the Compendium of Case Studies,^xiv which promotes good practices in community engagement and readiness for mineral development activities.

In the forest sector:

• The National Forest Carbon Monitoring, Accounting and Reporting System was enhanced to provide updated forest-related estimates for Canada’s 2016 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) National Inventory Report^xv as part of Canada’s commitment to GHG emission reductions;
• NRCan participated in two international negotiating sessions to advance Canada’s forest sector interests under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)^xvi and contributed forest-related input to Canada’s Mid-Century, Long-Term, Low-Greenhouse Gas Development Strategy, which was submitted to the UNFCCC in November 2016 as required by the Paris Agreement;^xvii

• The Department supported changes to building codes for midrise wood construction in Asia to help expand global market potential for Canada’s forest sector;
  • In China, the new Tall Wood Building Code that was adopted in February 2017 broadened the scope of timber structures from three storeys to five storeys.
  • In Japan, approvals for fireproof standards permitted an increase in wood construction buildings from four storeys to six storeys. This equates to an estimated net incremental market potential of almost 1,000,000 m³ of softwood annually, which is currently valued at about CAD $335 million.^{Footnote 4}

• Commercial uptake of tall wood construction in Canada was fostered through the Tall Wood Building Demonstration Initiative (TWBDI). TWBDI supported the construction of the 18-storey Brock Commons Tallwood House, a student residence at the University of British Columbia, and the 13-storey Origine building in Quebec City, the tallest all-wood condominium in North America at this time. Experience gained through the Origine construction was applied to a technical guide that offers pre-approved design solutions for mass timber buildings in Quebec and to Montreal’s ARBORA for its residential, cross-laminated timber constructions;

• The Department promoted Canada’s sustainable forest management practices and leadership in forest science, through a summer social media campaign undertaken by Canadian embassies and consulates in the United States and Mexico. Over four months, the campaign distributed more than 1,636 tweets to approximately 459,900 Twitter subscribers; and
• NRCan produced scientific publications on the conservation of woodland caribou, wolverines, and the management of the boreal forest, and conducted outreach activities, primarily in Alberta, that increased collaboration among the oil and gas sector, forest companies, and Indigenous communities. This work supported the sustainable development of Canada’s forests as described in the Canadian Boreal Forest Agreement (CBFA).

Results achived

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Natural resource sectors have increased access to existing markets	Natural resource sectors have access to markets as defined by exports of energy products, mineral and metal products and forest products	Meet or exceed baseline of ten-year average of Canada's share of United States and global imports	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved In 2016-17, Canada's share of American natural resource imports was 23.8%, a minor variation against the 10-year baseline average 23.7%.  There was a decline in the value of U.S. natural resource imports from Canada in 2016-17, largely a result of lower commodity prices. The overall value of American natural resource imports from Canada in 2016 was $110.5 billion, below the 2007 value of $151.8 billion.	Results: Achieved In 2015-16, Canada’s share of American natural resource imports was 25.1% (1.5% above the 10-year 2005-14 baseline average of 23.6%). The overall value of American natural resource imports from Canada in 2015 was $164.3 billion, above the 2006 figure of $95.2 billion.	Results: Achieved In 2014, Canada’s share of American natural resource imports was 26.3%, above the 10-year (2005-14) baseline average of 23.6%. The overall value of US natural resource imports from Canada in 2014 was $199.8 billion, above the 2005 figure of $159.1 billion.
Natural resource sectors have increased access to new market segments	Natural resource sectors have access to new market segments as defined by exports of energy products, mineral and metal products and forest products	Meet or exceed baseline of ten-year average of Canada’s share of China and India’s imports	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved In 2016-17, Canada's share of Chinese natural resource imports was 1.6%, close to the 10-year baseline average of 1.7% (2007-16). The overall value of Chinese natural resource imports from Canada in 2016 was $7.7 billion, above the 2007 value of $6.0 billion.	Results: Achieved In 2015-16, Canada’s share of Chinese natural resources imports was 1.7%, stable against the 10-year (2005-14) baseline average. The overall value of Chinese natural resource imports from Canada in 2015 was $11.6 billion, nearly three times the 2006 figure of $4.3 billion.	Results: Achieved In 2014, Canada’s share of Chinese natural resources imports was 1.5%, close to the 10-year (2005-14) baseline average of 1.7%. The overall value of Chinese natural resource imports from Canada in 2014 was $11.9 billion, above the 2005 figure of $4.3 billion.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
43,993,476	43,993,476	74,012,256	70,738,385	26,744,909

The increase between Planned spending and Actual spending is mainly attributed to additional funding received during the year through Supplementary Estimates for the modernization of the National Energy Board, funding to protect marine and coastal areas, and funding to settle Soldier Settlement Board mineral rights.

The increase is also explained by a realignment of real property expenditures related to special purpose buildings and the Federal Infrastructure Initiative which were planned under Internal Services while actual costs were incurred under the appropriate program, in line with TBS guidelines.

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
243	277	34

The increase between Planned FTEs and Actual FTEs is mainly attributed to the hiring related to the funding received through Supplementary Estimates for the modernization of the National Energy Board and marine protection as well as reallocation of resources from other program areas.

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xviii

Program 1.2: Innovation for New Products and Processes

Description

Optimizing the use of Canada's natural resources and the processes by which they are developed would improve the productivity and competitiveness of natural resource sectors. The objective of this program is to maximize productivity and competitiveness by encouraging the adoption of new technologies and processes and the development of new products. These objectives are achieved by conducting and supporting research and development and by delivering frameworks and policies for, and demonstrations of, new applications, technologies, processes, and products.          

Results

In 2016-17, NRCan engaged in several innovative projects to advance new technologies, processes and tools in the areas of mining, forestry and geospatial in order to enhance sustainability and productivity in natural resource sectors.

In the mining sector, NRCan:

• Developed a greener, more economical method for leaching processing mineral deposits that uses bacteria to recover nickel from mine waste and low-grade deposits, instead of using harmful or expensive chemicals;
• Designed a more economical approach for extracting rare earth elements (REE) important in clean, defence and high technology industries, which reduced capital and operating costs for the Canadian businesses by approximately $50M;
• Completed testing at a demonstration project at Agnico Eagle in Val-d’Or, Quebec that revealed the potential of High-Performance Synthetic Ropes (HPSR) to replace heavier steel wire ropes in deep mine hoisting operations; and
• Assessed an approach to potentially reduce energy consumption and the operational costs of ore processing using a new 3D laser scanner prototype to measure ore size distribution at the primary crusher.

In the forest sector, NRCan:

• Funded the development of pulp refinement technology that can transform low quality wood into sugars and lignin for use in the biochemical industry and other sectors, such as for animal feedstock;
• Funded projects through the Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) that will lead to the production of five new products made from wood fibre for commercial sale and the development of new applications of related technologies. Combined, these projects will create almost 20 new jobs and establish greater job security for more than 550 others;
• Supported economic development for Indigenous peoples by promoting greater participation in natural resource sectors through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI), which enabled:
  • Creation of a new Indigenous business that will employ members of four Lake Nipigon First Nations communities;
  • Installation of over 30 high-efficiency wood stoves and production of clean burning, long-lasting briquettes to reduce firewood consumption, smoke emissions and associated health risks for Nunatsiavut communities and provide a more secure source of heat for vulnerable residents;
  • Allocation of 200,000 m³ of wood to the Long Lake 58 First Nation, which will allow community members to harvest wood on the Kenogami Forest; and
  • Negotiation of a Power Purchase Agreement between the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) and Whitesand First Nation to supply up to 4 MW of biomass power from a proposed biomass power generating station that would create 50 full-time and 60 seasonal jobs;
• Collaborated on the development and deployment of knowledge and tools such as:
  • The Enhanced Forest Inventory (EFI), which captured over 30 million hectares of specific, detailed attributes of trees, forests and landscapes. EFI helps Canadian forestry companies plan their operations and maximize the value of each harvested tree through reduced costs, increased profits and long-term economic sustainability;
  • The web-based Biomass Inventory Mapping and Analysis Tool, which helps locate biomass suitable for fuel or other industrial processes, and supports provincial renewable natural gas (RNG) initiatives that foster sector innovation while mitigating GHG emissions; and
• Supported projects that demonstrated technology using short-rotation woody crops to maximize wood fibre and biomass production, and to clean up contaminated soil and groundwater. The technology is being deployed by provinces, municipalities, Indigenous communities and private industry.

In the area of geospatial data, NRCan:

• Provided increased and more efficient access to geospatial data and tools to Canadians, improving how data are updated and provided to clients and strengthening the alignment of web services. NRCan also worked with the provinces and territories under the National Elevation Data Strategy to prepare new accurate elevation data products and services, which are used to build high-resolution maps and geospatial analysis. Under the North American Cooperation on Energy Information (NACEI)^xix initiative with the United States and Mexico, NRCan also added new data layers for energy infrastructure maps and updated web services. These initiatives are consistent with Federal Geospatial Platform (FGP) and Open Government initiatives aimed at providing access to the federal government’s most relevant geospatial information;

• Provided geospatial expert advice for decision-making and economic growth, including for the University of Sherbrooke’s Lake Pulse project on Canadian lakes, which is designed to help manage and conserve freshwater resources. NRCan also developed a multidimensional processing methodology for mapping ground deformations that is used by researchers around the world; and
• Expanded the Canadian Geospatial Data Infrastructure (CGDI) for increased connections across geospatial data sources and as well as improved data access and use. Through the GeoConnections program, NRCan:
  • Engaged with the Open Geospatial Consortium to help strengthen the availability of Arctic data and influence information management practices by the Arctic Council;
  • Supported the creation of GeoAlliance Canada to help strengthen Canada’s geomatics community and address strategic priorities for the geomatics sector; and
  • Funded Canadian companies like SensorUp Inc., Open North and AMITA Corporation to advance CGDI objectives in Smart City deployment.

NRCan’s ongoing efforts to encourage the adoption of new technologies and processes and the development of new products can be seen in a long-term trend of research and development expenditures in the natural resource sectors. Actual results from 2016-17 were impacted by a change in data collection methodology in 2014.

Results achieved

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Natural resource sectors increase production of new products and processes	Number of new products and processes resulting from NRCan information	2 per year	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved Two new processes were developed based on NRCan information, specifically: One new Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standard on cellulose nanomaterials was developed to improve the quality of the end product. One new regulatory standard for the International Movement of Wood was developed to help prevent the movement of pests.	Results: Achieved One new product and one new process were developed based on NRCan information, specifically: A database of Canada’s biomass feedstock characteristics and associated modeling tools, to which entrepreneurs and industry now have access; and, An evidence-based process for forest managers to mitigate the effects of root rots on high-value timber.	Results: Achieved One new product and one new process were developed based on NRCan information, namely: A GHG calculator for a variety of forest bioenergy deployment scenarios in Canada for use within the bioenergy community; and A new process for the handling and storage of woody biomass to reduce moisture uptake and risk of decomposition and combustion of large biomass storage piles.
	R&D expenditures in natural resource sectors, specifically total intramural R&D expenditures in energy, mining and forest sectors	TBD Targets for this indicator will be revisited in future reporting. In the 2016-17 RPP, the target was originally set to “Favourable 10-year trend” and the target date was set to “March 31, 2017.” However, this target is no longer valid due to changes in the data collection methodology for this indicator. These changes have an impact on the accuracy of the 10-year baseline average used to assess whether or not the result was achieved.	TBD	Results: Not Available In 2016, business enterprise R&D expense intentions for the energy, mining and forest sectors were $1.7 billion, below the 2007 figure of $2.1 billion. These natural resource sector intentions accounted for 9.7% of total industry R&D spending, which is lower than the 10-year baseline average of 12.6%. a	Results: Achieved In 2015, business enterprise R&D expense intentions for the energy, mining and forest sectors were $2.1 billion, slightly below the 2006 figure of $2.3 billion. However, these natural resource sector intentions accounted for 13.3% of total industry R&D spending, slightly above the 10-year baseline average of 12.0%.a	Results: Achieved Business enterprise research and development expenses intentions in 2014 in the natural resource sectors were $2.1 billion, above the 2005 figure of $1.4 billion. Natural resource sector intentions accounted for 13.3% of total business enterprise research and development spending, slightly above the 10-year baseline average of 12.0%.a
Methodologies, policies, strategies, plans and standards are collaboratively used by governments and private sector organizations in the development of new innovative and value-added geospatial applications	Number of formally adopted methodologies, policies, strategies, plans and standards generated from collaborative activities and participation	Increase in the number of methodologies, polices, strategies, plans and standards generated from collaborative activities and participation in 2016-17 and compared to the 2015-16 baseline year	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved Three new tools were developed. This number will be used as the baseline for future reporting years.	Not available: Performance indicator did not exist in 2015-16	Not available: Performance indicator did not exist in 2014-15

---

^a Only the natural resource industries for which the R&D expenses were available for the full 2005-14 or 2006-15 periods, or for which they could be estimated using available information, have been included in the analysis. Natural resource industries for which estimates were suppressed due to confidentiality or data quality reasons for one or more years have been excluded from the analysis.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
96,074,981	96,074,981	111,219,760	97,761,228	1,686,247

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
296	328	32

The increase between Planned FTEs and Actual FTEs is mainly attributed to the hiring of students and casual workers related the Rare Earth Elements and Chromite program and the hiring of additional staff needed to complete project deliverables.

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xvi

Program 1.3: Investment in Natural Resource Sectors

Description

Investing in the development of natural resources is costly and risky due to inherent uncertainties in the potential economic viability of natural resource projects. Many factors must be considered when deciding whether to develop a natural resource project. In some cases, limited information may make it difficult for investors and/or companies to assess potential opportunities. The objective of this Program is to encourage investment in the natural resource sectors by increasing industry's knowledge of opportunities, regulations and obligations. This ensures that a more accurate assessment of the expected benefits of an investment can be made and subsequently compared to its costs and risks, thereby allowing for a more comprehensive investment decision. This objective is achieved by providing funding and information on the factors that determine the potential economic viability of natural resource projects.

Results

To help meet rising global demand for oil and gas, the Government of Canada is investing in infrastructure projects^xx that will move Canada’s energy to consumers.

In 2016-17 NRCan led government-wide efforts to modernize the regulatory system for major pipeline projects, as mandated by the Prime Minister and to help restore confidence in Canada’s environmental assessment processes. These efforts complement the Pipeline Safety Act that came into force in June 2016. NRCan supported the creation and functioning of an Expert Panel to lead the National Energy Board (NEB) Modernization review.

Appointed by the Minister of NRCan, the Expert Panel used both online submissions and in-person meetings, organized and supported by NRCan, to seek the opinions of Canadians on the NEB. The Panel held engagement sessions across Canada, including with Indigenous peoples, travelling to 10 cities and hearing presentations from close to 200 individuals. Over 1,000 Canadians attended the sessions in person and the Panel received more than 200 detailed written inputs.

A specific plan for engagement with Indigenous communities was developed in cooperation with National Indigenous Organizations. As part of this Indigenous engagement, the Expert Panel heard presentations from 74 Indigenous groups and received 70 document submissions. In total, 326 individuals participated in the Panel’s Indigenous engagement sessions.

The Panel is preparing a report that will inform policy and legislative changes to ensure that Canada remains competitive, that the review process for new projects is inclusive and that we advance the nation-to-nation relationship as well as reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

NRCan's focused engagement with Indigenous communities on energy infrastructure development strives to facilitate increased involvement of Indigenous communities in the full life cycle of project development, from early project scoping, to environmental monitoring during construction, operation, and decommissioning. The Prime Minister committed to establishing Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for the Trans Mountain Expansion and the Line 3 Pipeline Replacement Program projects that were approved in November 2016. NRCan engaged with the majority of Indigenous communities potentially impacted by the projects to co-develop Terms of Reference for these Committees, including through joint Indigenous-Government Working Groups. These Committees support a new relationship between Indigenous communities, the federal government, the NEB and other federal regulators, and demonstrate the Government of Canada's commitment to reconciliation and a renewed relationship with Indigenous peoples.

Geoscience research helped identify oil and gas production opportunities for potential investors domestically and abroad:

• NRCan’s marine geoscience surveys confirmed the availability of oil and gas in the deep waters of the Scotian Slope in Canada’s Atlantic offshore;
• Resource assessments evaluated the potential for petroleum in the Canada Basin in Canada’s Arctic offshore; for Macasty Shale oil in Quebec; and for unconventional oil^{Footnote 5} in southern Ontario;

• A Canada-United States project near the southern borders of Saskatchewan and Manitoba tested the use of carbon dioxide industry waste to increase oil production from shale rock;
• A Canada-Korea shale gas project examined geological properties of gas plays in the Liard and Horn River Basins and the Montney in British Columbia, reinforcing international investment and export opportunities;
• A Canada-China shale gas project assessed the properties of unconventional petroleum resources in Canada and China, promoting productive technology and science transfer internationally; and
• A $3 billion investment by Japanese firms supported scientific collaboration on the characteristics of gas-producing shale in the Montney and Duvernay formations in Western Canada, providing public information that continues to build more efficient and successful exploration and production models for Canadian energy operators.

Information was made available to industry, potential investors and the general public to increase awareness and allow for more comprehensive investment decisions:

• Mineral and mining information providing statistics, market analysis, industrial and regional development, fiscal incentives and tax, trade and tariff policies was provided through key publications, including:
  • The 2016 Production of Canada’s Leading Minerals;^xxi
  • The Mineral Production Statistics (preliminary^xxii and annual^xxiii);
  • The Mineral Exploration statistics (preliminary^xxiv and annual^xxv; and
  • The 2016 Mineral Trade Statistics.^xxvi
• Information on next generation geoscience knowledge and innovative techniques was made available to industry through 25 new publications and a mid-year synthesis of results, as part of the Targeted Geoscience Initiative (TGI).
• Nearly 330 maps, technical reports, and open files from 17 research activities in the Geo-Mapping for Energy and Minerals (GEM) program were made publicly available on-line.

Stakeholder support for Canada’s mining resources was strengthened through increased collaboration and engagement with industry and communities. For example:

• The TGI program formed a new Industry Advisory Group (IAG) representing major national mineral exploration associations like the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC), the Canada Mining Innovation Council (CMIC), and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), which resulted in improved feedback and advice from industry experts, enhanced information sharing with key stakeholders, and higher visibility.
• GEM scientists and engagement officers visited 13 northern communities to discuss current GEM projects. The GEM program hosted a meeting with the Advisory Group of Northerners in Kluane, Yukon to ensure northerners, including Indigenous groups, are involved in project development processes.

NRCan supported the development of the geoscience field, expertise and Canadian geoscientists through targeted funding:

• The TGI program funded six post-doctoral research fellows and 29 post-secondary students under the federal government’s Research Affiliate Program and awarded 13 academic two-year grants worth $1.2M to address research gaps;
• The GEM program contributed to 10 academic multi-year grants worth $605K in total and four multidisciplinary grants for a total of $198K awarded to northern organizations to enable the use of GEM geoscience in their decision-making processes.

While NRCan supports investments in the development of natural resources, investment decisions are also influenced by external economic factors. When commodity prices are lower, for example, natural resource producers are less likely to invest. In 2016-17 these external factors impacted the degree to which the Department was able to deliver on its targeted results.

Results achieved

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Natural resource sectors have increased investment	Growth of capital expenditures in the energy sector (average of past 5 years) compared to growth in overall capital expenditures in Canada (average of past 5 years)	The average 5-year growth rate of capital expenditures in the energy sector is equal to or higher than the average 5-year growth rate in capital expenditures in Canada	March 31, 2017	Results: Not Achieved In 2016, energy sector capital expenditures were $74 billion. Over the past five years (2011-16), energy sector capital expenditure declined by an average annual rate of 1.6%. This is below the average annual growth rate of 0.3% in the Canadian economy as a whole and is likely due, in part, to lower commodity prices which have led natural resource producers in Canada and globally to lower investment.	Results: Achieved In 2015, energy sector capital expenditures were $89.5 billion. Over the past five years (2010-15), energy sector capital expenditures grew by an average annual rate of 5.7%. This is above the average annual growth rate of 3% in the Canadian economy as a whole.	Results: Achieved Capital expenditures in 2014 in the energy sector were $108.3 billion. Over the past five years (2009-2014), capital expenditures in the energy sector grew by an average annual rate of 15.0%. This compares to an average annual growth of 6.6% in the Canadian economy as a whole.
	Growth of capital expenditures in the forest sector (average of past 5 years) compared to growth in overall capital expenditures in Canada (average of past 5 years)	The average 5-year growth rate of capital expenditures in the forest sector is equal to or higher than the average 5-year growth rate in capital expenditures in Canada	March 31, 2017	Results: Not Achieved In 2016, forest sector capital expenditures were $13 billion.  Over the past five years (2011-16), forest sector capital expenditure declined by an average annual rate of 5.2%. This is below the average annual growth rate of 0.3% in the Canadian economy as a whole and is likely due, in part, to lower commodity prices which have led natural resource producers in Canada and globally to lower investment.	Results: Achieved In 2015, forest sector capital expenditures were $2.7 billion. Over the past five years (2010-15), forest sector capital expenditures grew by an average annual rate of 14.8%. This is above the average annual growth rate of 3% in the Canadian economy as a whole.	Results: Achieved Capital expenditures in 2014 in the forest sector were $2.6 billion. Over the past five years (2009-2014), capital expenditures in the forest sector grew by an average annual rate of 20.0%. This compares to an average annual growth of 6.6% in the Canadian economy as a whole.
	Growth of capital expenditures in the minerals and metals sector (average of past 5 years) compared to growth in overall capital expenditures in Canada (average of past 5 years)	The average 5-year growth rate of capital expenditures in the minerals and metals sector is equal to or higher than the average 5-year growth rate in capital expenditures in Canada	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved In 2016, minerals and metals sector capital expenditures were $13 billion.  Over the past five years (2011-16), minerals and metals sector capital expenditure grew by an average annual rate of 6.7%. This is above the average annual growth rate of 0.3% in the Canadian economy as a whole.	Results: Achieved In 2015, minerals and metals sector capital expenditures were $14.9 billion. Over the past five years (2010-15), minerals and metals capital expenditures grew by an average annual rate of 3.5%. This is above the average annual growth rate of 3% in the Canadian economy as a whole.	Results: Achieved Capital expenditures in 2014 in the minerals and metals sector were $15.0 billion. Over the past five years (2009-2014), capital expenditures in the minerals and metals sector grew by an average annual rate of 12.1%. This compares to an average annual growth of 6.6% in the Canadian economy as a whole.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
62,900,219	62,900,219	74,761,684	74,593,181	11,692,962

The increase between Planned spending and Actual spending is mainly attributed to additional funding received during the year through Supplementary Estimates for the Interim Strategy for Pipelines. The increase is also explained by a realignment of real property expenditures related to special purpose buildings and the Federal Infrastructure Initiative which were planned under Internal Services while actual costs were incurred under the appropriate program, in line with TBS guidelines.

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
378	422	44

The increase between Planned FTEs and Actual FTEs is mainly attributed to the redistribution of the staff from other program areas.

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xvi

Program 1.4: Statutory Programs – Atlantic Offshore

Description

Through this Program, NRCan monitors and facilitates payment disbursal agreements and transfer payments under the Atlantic Offshore Accord Acts. The Program includes the following: Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board; Payments to the Newfoundland Offshore Petroleum Resource Revenue Fund; Payments to the Nova Scotia Offshore Revenue Account; Nova Scotia Crown Share Adjustment Payment; and Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board.

Results

The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Act and the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Accord Implementation Act provide that the benefits of revenues from the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador and the Canada-Nova Scotia offshore areas flow to the provinces as if the resources were on land.

NRCan collects royalties, interests and penalties arising from production in the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador offshore area and the Canada-Nova Scotia offshore area and transfers equivalent sums as well as corporate income taxes and other required payments to the two provincial governments pursuant to the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Act and the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Accord Implementation Act.

NRCan also administers the federal contributions to the operating budgets of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board and the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board.

NRCan met its target relating to the timeliness and accuracy of offshore payments in 2016-17. The Department anticipated and prepared the necessary materials for payments to be processed within a 48-hour period to both Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador as required under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Act and the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Resources Accord Implementation Act. As a result, 100% of payments were made on time.

Results achieved

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Statutory requirements relating to offshore petroleum payments in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador are managed in a timely manner	Percentage of offshore payments processed in a timely manner	100%	Ongoing	Results: Achieved NRCan anticipated and pro-actively prepared the necessary materials for 100% of payments to be processed in a timely manner	Results: Achieved NRCan anticipated and pro-actively prepared the necessary materials for 100% of payments to be processed in a timely manner	Results: Achieved NRCan anticipated and pro-actively prepared the necessary materials for 100% of payments to be processed in a timely manner
Statutory requirements relating to offshore petroleum payments in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador are managed in an accurate manner	Percentage of offshore payments processed in an accurate manner	100%	Ongoing	Results: Achieved NRCan anticipated and pro-actively prepared the necessary materials for 100% of payments to be processed in an accurate manner	Results: Achieved NRCan anticipated and pro-actively prepared the necessary materials for 100% of payments to be processed in an accurate manner	Results: Achieved NRCan anticipated and pro-actively prepared the necessary materials for 100% of payments to be processed in an accurate manner

 

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
743,336,158	743,336,158	473,430,813	473,430,813	(269,905,345)

The decrease between Planned spending and Actual spending is mainly attributed to lower royalties for the Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Resource Revenue Fund than planned as a result of reduced oil prices from the time of the royalty forecast which was done in the fall of 2015 to the time the actual royalties were received, as well as reduced cost recovery remittances received from the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board and the Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board due to timing of the recovery.

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned *	2016–17 Actual *	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
0	0	0

*While the program focuses on actual statutory transfer payments, the full-time equivalents (FTEs) assigned to process the payments are funded under sub-program 1.1.3, which these FTEs primarily support.

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xvi

Program 2.1: Energy-Efficient Practices and Low-Carbon Energy Sources

Description

Canada’s energy markets are defined by the decisions of energy consumers and producers. However, there are multiple barriers to the adoption of energy-efficient practices and implementation of low-carbon energy sources, including a lack of awareness of available options and their benefits, insufficient capacity for adoption (e.g. regulatory frameworks, codes and standards), and financial risk. The objective of this Program is to address these barriers by encouraging and enabling energy consumers and producers to adopt cleaner and more energy-efficient technologies, products, services and practices. These objectives are achieved through education and outreach activities, targeted incentives, and regulatory interventions that keep pace with technological changes.

Results

NRCan helped improve energy efficiency across the Canadian economy by developing and reinforcing a supportive policy framework. For example,

• Thirty-five organizations in Canada are now certified to ISO 50001 and four facilities in Canada participated in a North American Management Pilot Project in 2016-17 to implement ISO 50001.^{Footnote 6}
• Energy performance will increase for 20 categories of appliances and equipment in Canada through the release of the Energy Efficiency Regulations, 2016.^xxvii Cost-benefit analyses indicate that Canadian residents will save about $1.8 billion in energy costs by 2030, while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by about 0.7 megatonnes.
• Results from compliance testing conducted on three regulated energy-using product categories (electric water heaters, oil-fired furnaces, and traffic and pedestrian signals) indicated that all tested products met the requirements of the Energy Efficiency Regulations. 
• Two marketplace audits for general service lamps and electric motors indicated that at least 95% of the product models assessed meet energy efficiency requirements. NRCan engaged with dealers of suspected non-compliant products to emphasize responsibilities under the regulations.
• NRCan administered SmartWay in Canada to save more than $90 million in annual fuels costs for 40,500 Canadian trucks in 2016. SmartWay works with freight carriers and shippers to benchmark operations, track fuel consumption and improve annual performance in the clean and efficient transport of goods.

To support the transition towards low-carbon economy, NRCan:

• Improved the energy efficiency of homes and buildings through its ENERGY STAR program;
• Produced 12.3 TWh (terwatt-hour) in renewable electricity. through its ecoENERGY for Renewable Power program (ecoERP) and the Wind Power Production Incentive (WPPI);^{Footnote 7}
• Contributed to the production of 106 million litres of ethanol and 12 million litres of biodiesel through its programming in alternative transportation fuels;
• Developed a suite of actions that support the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF),^xxvii  under the Canadian Energy Strategy (CES). NRCan is leading or co-leading 30 of the 54 actions under the PCF and providing expert support for 10 other actions.
• Advanced work on the development of three new federal programs to reduce GHG emissions from the Canadian electricity system. These programs target the development of smart grid technology, emerging renewable energy technologies and the deployment of renewable energy in remote communities;
• Established two regional dialogues (Atlantic and Western) with energy ministries and utilities under NRCan’s Regional Electricity Cooperation and Strategic Infrastructure program to develop studies that identify the best electricity infrastructure projects for significantly reducing GHG emissions;
• Supported the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging and alternative fuel refuelling stations that, once completed, will result in over 90 new Level-3 EV fast chargers, eight natural gas and three hydrogen stations, exceeding targets for all fuel types. To further support alternative fuel use, including for EV, NRCan also began developing nine codes and standards for electric and alternative fuelled vehicles and charging/refuelling infrastructure;
• Joined four additional clean energy initiatives under the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM)^xxix to strengthen and advance Canada’s collaborative work on clean energy technologies;
• In partnership with Environment and Climate Change Canada, produced the Report on Energy Supply and Demand in Canada, which informed analyses of Canada’s energy efficiency performance for 1990-2014 as well as contributed to the development of estimates of energy use by sector and province;
• Advanced work on a policy framework for administering marine renewable energy projects in the federal offshore, in collaboration with federal partners, provinces, Indigenous peoples, industry and other stakeholders that will help advance Canada’s renewable energy development;
• Contributed scientific and technical support that strengthened Canada’s advocacy efforts for a clear commitment from country partners to the Paris Agreement to advance its implementation, as part of our continued participation in the UNFCCC^xxx; and
• In collaboration with Statistics Canada, collected data for the Survey of Industrial Consumption of Energy; the Survey of Household Energy Use; the Survey of Commercial and Institutional Energy Use; and the Canadian Vehicle Use Survey with Transport Canada.

Results achieved

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Energy consumers and producers adopt environmentally responsible products and practices related to energy use and production	Canada's total annual energy savings due to efficiency (difference between energy use without energy efficiency improvements and energy use with energy efficiency improvements; the units are petajoules (PJ))	TBDa	TBDa	Results: Not available a From 1990 to 2014, energy efficiency in Canada improved 25%, which saved 1,669.3 PJ or $38.5 billion in energy and avoided 90.5 Mt of GHG emissions in 2014. Over the same period, total final energy demand in Canada increased 31%. It would have increased 55% without energy efficiency improvements. More details on energy savings and emission reduction from energy efficiency improvements can be found in the report of Energy Efficiency Trends in Canada 1990-2014.xxxi	Results: Achieved From 2008 to 2013, energy efficiency savings in Canada showed a favorable trend. While total energy used by final consumers increased by 28% between 1990 and 2013, the increase without energy efficiency improvements would have been 51%. From 1990 to 2013, energy efficiency in Canada improved 24%, a significant increase in energy savings which reduced energy use by 1,613.2 PJ, saved Canadians $37.6 billion and decreased GHG emissions by 85.4Mt in 2013.b	Results: Achieved From 2008 to 2012, energy savings due to energy efficiency in Canada showed a favorable trend. Over this time period, energy efficiency improvements reduced energy use by 353 PJ. From 1990 to 2012, energy efficiency in Canada improved 24.2% a significant increase in energy savings which reduced energy use by 1,642.8 PJ, saved Canadians $37.4 billion and decreased GHG emissions by 86.6Mt in 2012. More details on energy efficiency improvement as well as information on trends in energy use and energy efficiency in the residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, and transportation sectors can be found in the report Energy Efficiency Trends in Canada 1990-2012.
	Renewable electricity generation capacity in megawatts (MW) across Canada	Favourable 5-year trend in MW, as per 2007 baseline of 6,753 MW of installed capacity (excluding large hydro)	Now and ongoing	Results: On Track Renewable electricity generation capacity increased from 17,435.5 MWc in 2014 to 19,996.5 MW in 2015 (including small hydro).	Results: On Track Renewable electricity generation capacity increased from 14,301 MW in 2013 to 17,236 MW in 2014 (including small hydro).	Results: On Track Existing data suggest this favourable 5-year trend is on track as renewable electricity generation capacity increased from 9,261 MW in 2010 to 14,301 MW in 2013, including 50 MW of small hydro. (Data source: Stats Canada - CANSIM)
	Biofuel production in Canada	Favourable 5-year trend as per 2007 baseline of 786.1 million litres of ethanol and 92.8 million litres of biodiesel	Now and ongoing	Results: Achieved There has been steady growth in domestic biofuel production. In 2016-17, the domestic biofuel industry produced 1,700 million litres of ethanol, and 430 million litres of biodiesel, of which106 million litres of ethanol and 12 million litres of biodiesel were produced with support from the ecoENERGY for Biofuels program. As this was the final year of the program, fewer domestic producers received direct program support, given many participants had completed their seven-year incentive period in 2015-16.	Results: Achieved The production capacity of biofuels in Canada increased steadily between 2007 and 2012. In 2015-16, NRCan’s ecoENERGY for Biofuels program contributed to achieving the production of 342 million litres of ethanol and 18 million litres of biodiesel.	Results: Achieved The production capacity of biofuels has increased steadily since 2007. In 2014-15, NRCan programs contributed to achieving production of 1,739 million litres of ethanol and 128 million litres of biodiesel. The level of biofuels production has risen to meet Canadian and US mandates for renewable content in the fuel pool. Increased production of renewable fuels diversifies the energy mix in Canada.

^a The target for 2016-17 will be set once program decisions are made in late 2017. As a result, an assessment of whether the target was met is not possible at this time.
^b More details on energy efficiency improvement as well as information on trends in energy use and energy efficiency in the residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, and transportation sectors can be found in the 2013-15 Report to Parliament under the Energy Efficiency Act.^xxxii
c The 2014 renewable electricity generation capacity in megawatts (MW) across Canada has been revised to 17435.5MW as based on NRCan’s and Statistics Canada’s most recent data.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
183,336,817	183,336,817	213,996,763	177,431,795	(5,905,022)

The decrease between Planned spending and Actual spending is mainly attributed to the ecoENERGY for Biofuels, ecoENERGY for Renewable Power and Wind Power Production Incentive programs as payments under these contribution programs are based on production levels. In 2016-17, the recipients produced less and therefore claimed less than the maximum allowable under their contribution agreement, resulting in significant lapses for these programs. These lapses were offset by funding received during the year through Supplementary Estimates for the Clean Growth and Climate Change and the Green Infrastructure programs.

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
101	265	164

The increase between Planned FTEs and Actual FTEs is mainly attributed to the hiring related to the funding received through Supplementary Estimates.

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xvi

Program 2.2: Technology Innovation

Description

Science and Technology is key to overcoming challenges confronted by natural resource sectors in pursuing responsible development. Through this Program, NRCan encourages academia, industry and the public sector to research, develop and demonstrate innovative solutions. This objective is achieved through the generation and dissemination of scientific knowledge, and the development and demonstration of new technologies.

Results

NRCan advanced innovative energy science and technology through three major mechanisms: federal research with laboratories in Varennes, Ottawa, Hamilton and Devon, projects with external partners and science-informed policy.  In 2016-17, NRCan managed approximately 250 projects in partnership with industry, provincial and territorial governments, universities, associations, non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders. This work involved the development of new, cleaner and more efficient energy products, practices, production and resource extraction. Through these partnerships, NRCan enhanced economic opportunities for innovation across the sector while leading the transition to a low-carbon economy.

In 2016-17, NRCan supported the development of innovative and cleaner technology through the ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative (ecoEII)^{Footnote 8}

• Supporting Shell Canada’s Quest Carbon Capture and Storage Facility, a key large-scale project that successfully reached its target of capturing and storing over one million tons of carbon dioxide.  The project continues to be one of the most successful large-scale carbon capture and storage demonstration projects in the world;
• Working with industry leader Lafarge to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in heavy emitting industrial sectors by substituting low carbon fuels for coal in the cement-making processes; and
• Conducting a study in partnership with Canadian and American utilities and systems operators that will provide critical information as they develop plans to integrate additional renewable energy sources into their electricity grids, over the next decade.

NRCan also supported research, development and demonstration (RD&D) energy projects through the Oil Spill Response Science, Energy Innovation, Green Infrastructure, and Oil and Gas Technology programs, as well as the Program of Energy Research and Development, including:

• Spearheading the transition to NetZero housing^{Footnote 9} in Canada, building 21 NetZero energy and five NetZero energy-ready homes in Calgary, Guelph, Ottawa, Montreal, and Halifax;
• Conducting simulations in collaboration with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission on materials used in the tubing of CANDU (CANada Deuterium Uranium) reactors;
• Releasing a new version of RETScreen, a publicly available clean energy management software available in 36 languages with more than half a million users worldwide, and 1,000 new users each week; 
• Implementing nine electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure demonstration projects, including:
  • product development for innovative fast charging and curbside charging stations that are expected to result in up to 1,000 additional charging stations across Canada, including 34 fast charging stations along the Trans-Canada Highway in northern Ontario and Manitoba; and
  • data collection from 85% of users on charging and EV use to inform future sites for EV charging stations and electric grid updates across Canada;
• Conducting pipeline safety research on the vulnerability of common pipeline coatings to external corrosion and cracking, which will help keep Canadians safe and protect the environment from pipeline-related incidents;
• Quantifying high-resolution solar photovoltaic (solar power) data to help address the issue of solar power fluctuations as stakeholders and utilities gear up to integrate solar power into their operations;
• Testing the use of carbon dioxide as a natural refrigerant/heat transfer fluid in order to eliminate the use of synthetic refrigerants and reduce energy required to heat buildings by up to 50%;
• Collaborating with international partners to develop cost-effective strategies that can minimize the environmental impacts of methane and black carbon emissions from the oil and gas sector; and
• Piloting research to develop a unique bitumen extraction process that could potentially reduce thermal energy demand and GHG emissions, while maintaining productivity and robustness of the current commercial ore mining process.

In 2016-17, NRCan also successfully renewed the Memorandum of Understanding between the Governments of Canada and Alberta to ensure continued federal-provincial collaboration on climate change, clean energy technologies and more sustainable oil sands development.

NRCan helped solidify Canada’s leadership role in clean technology on the global stage as part of Mission Innovation, an initiative which aims to accelerate the pace of clean energy innovation internationally. Canada participated in the first Mission Innovation Ministerial held in June 2016, where Canada became a member of the Steering Committee and member countries established an Enabling Framework. Member countries also announced their energy RD&D investment baselines and doubling targets.^{Footnote 10}

In November 2016, during the 22nd Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP22),^xxxiii Mission Innovation Ministers launched seven Innovation Challenges, to encourage increased engagement in key energy technology areas by the global research community, industry, and investors, while also providing opportunities for new collaborations between Mission Innovation members.^{Footnote 11}

Results achieved

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Stakeholders invest in S&T to address environmental challenges	Dollar value of stakeholder investments in S&T to address environmental challenges	5% increase over the average of the previous 5 year period	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved The target was achieved with an 8% average growth over the previous five-year period.	Results: Achieved The target was achieved with an 11% average growth over the previous five-year period.	Results: Achieved The target was achieved with an 11% average growth over the previous 5 years period.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
115,838,434	115,838,434	148,253,404	148,143,884	32,305,450

The increase between Planned spending and Actual spending is mainly attributed to additional funding received during the year through Supplementary Estimates for Clean Growth and Climate Change, Green Infrastructure and Cleaner Oil and Gas Technologies. Offsetting these increases is the funding transferred to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada related to the Sustainable Development Technology Fund.

The increase is also explained by a realignment of real property expenditures related to special purpose buildings and the Federal Infrastructure Initiative which were planned under Internal Services while actual costs were incurred under the appropriate program, in line with TBS guidelines.

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
516	653	137

The increase between Planned FTEs and Actual FTEs is mainly attributed to the hiring related to the funding received through Supplementary Estimates.

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xvi

Program 2.3: Responsible Natural Resource Management

Description

Greater knowledge of environmental risks and environmentally responsible practices help prevent and reduce the environmental impacts of past, present and future natural resource development. The objectives of this Program are to enable government departments, regulatory bodies and industry to assess these impacts and develop, monitor and maintain resources or clean up wastes responsibly. These objectives are achieved through the provision of assessments and knowledge rooted in sound science, and through waste management efforts that are undertaken in collaboration with provinces, federal agencies and municipalities.

Results

NRCan contributed to the increase of scientific knowledge of forest ecosystems by providing foundational, evidence-based knowledge for industry stakeholders to make environmentally responsible decisions on natural resource development. For example, NRCan:

• Made its Carbon Budget Model available to forest managers of boreal peatlands and improved models for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals to direct operational decisions toward sustainable forest management;
• Developed a forest floor recovery index manual and application on assessing the recovery of reclaimed oil sands sites to support better management practices in the restoration of natural forest ecosystems;
• Conducted assessments on the impact of industrial disturbances for forest ecosystems;
• Completed new research on airborne and waterborne oilsands-related contaminants to distinguish between natural contaminants and those made by humans;
• Created the Digital Elevation Model for the North, providing the data to countries active in the Arctic region;
• Developed guidebooks for the oil sands region to transfer knowledge from forestry practices to the energy sector;
• Developed estimates for Canada’s 2016 Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report,^xii as required by the UNFCCC; and
• Supported the preparation of the State of Canada’s Forests^xxxiv report, as required by the Department of Natural Resources Act.

NRCan contributed to sustainable land-use decision-making and groundwater management through its work in groundwater geoscience, such as:

• Research in Quebec suggested that cap rock in the intermediate zone is an effective barrier for protecting aquifers from contamination originating from deep shale oil and gas fracking. This is being further investigated through a federal-provincial collaboration with New Brunswick;
• Completion of a 3D geological model representing the fractured bedrock aquifers in southern Ontario, continued input of groundwater monitoring data from Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Nova Scotia, and collecting additional data from 10 locations across Canada to support 3D regional hydrogeological models.

NRCan contributed scientific expertise and advice to aid in the planning of natural resource development and the identification and mitigation of environmental impacts related to major resource projects. For example, NRCan:

• Assessed the impact of resource development on Bathurst caribou in the Northwest Territories, including using satellite remote sensing to map the impact of air pollution such as road dust and airborne fine particulates on vegetation and habitat conditions. Results from this study directly contributed to the Government of the Northwest Territories’ range plan to preserve the Bathurst caribou herd and an environmental assessment report by the Dominion Diamond Ekati Corporation, a Canadian company operating the Ekati Diamond Mine in the Northwest Territories;
• Developed, applied, and promoted the use of low-cost Unmanned Aerial Vehicle mapping techniques for the North to conduct detailed surveys of tundra vegetation and landscape disturbances, including permafrost thaw slumps and fire damage in the boreal forest;
• Supported the Government of Canada’s review of federal environmental assessment processes associated with the 2012 Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA). The review, led by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, aimed at developing new, fair processes that are robust, incorporate scientific evidence, protect our environment, respect the rights of Indigenous peoples, and support economic growth; and
• Assessed 57 development projects, as required by the CEAA and northern regimes.

The Department also continued to take action to establish long-term management solutions for radioactive waste. In 2016-17, NRCan discontinued routine medical isotope^{Footnote 12} production at the Atomic Energy of Canada Limited’s (AECL) National Research Universal reactor (NRU) in Chalk River, Ontario. The reactor produced the majority of Canada's medical isotope supply. A “NRU Contingency Plan” was launched for November 1, 2016 to March 31, 2018, positioning Canada as an isotope ‘supplier of last resort’ in the event of a global shortage. Canada continues to work with isotope-producing countries to identify and implement sustainable solutions for a secure medical isotope supply, including through NRCan’s leadership at the High-Level Group on Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes, a forum of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s Nuclear Energy Agency.

NRCan has oversight responsibilities for the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO), which is responsible for implementing Canada’s long-term plan for managing nuclear fuel waste. In 2016-17, NRCan ensured that the NWMO and nuclear energy organizations continued to meet their obligations under the Nuclear Fuel Waste Act.

Results achieved

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Public and private sectors establish practices to mitigate the environmental impacts to natural resources	Number of public and private sector new or updated policies, regulations or other decision-making tools completed annually	3 per year	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved 1. NRCan’s Canadian Forest Service continued to update its version of the Carbon Budget Model of the Canadian Forest Sector (CBM-CFS3), improved guidance for using the model, and provided it to stakeholders. It also held two training workshops. 2. A synthesis of scientific information and research results from the Ecosystem Management Emulating Natural Disturbance (EMEND) experiment formed the basis for 2 symposia. New insights about ecosystem-based forestry management were shared with researchers, including concrete examples of ecosystem attributes that responded positively or recovered more quickly at higher retention levels, resulting in a better understanding of the benefits of retention harvesting.Footnote 13 3. NRCan’s Groundwater Geoscience program has signed an MOU with the BC Ministry of the Environment to provide scientific support in the implementation of their new Water Sustainability Act. 4. NRCan’s Environmental Geoscience Program’s work on background seismicity is mentioned in the Strategic Environmental Assessment of Quebec hydrocarbon, report specifically on Île d’Anticosti (May 2016). In addition, scientists from the Environmental Geoscience Program (EGP) continue providing expertise and sharing knowledge to help the Government of the Northwest Territories (NWT) identify health related issues due to arsenic in the environment after new data was acquired on arsenic in soils, water and sediments in the Yellowknife area, including meeting with the Chief Medical Officer of Health for the NWT to get a better understand of the EGP findings.	Results: Achieved 1. NRCan’s Canadian Forest Service updated its operational-scale version of Carbon Budget Model of the Canadian Forest Sector (CBM-CFS3) and provided it to stakeholders. 2. A synthesis of 15 years of scientific information from the Ecosystem Management Emulating Natural Disturbance (EMEND) experiment is nearing completion. EMEND’s research focuses on the effectiveness of ecosystem-based management in the western boreal. Lessons learned from this research are being applied to improve management practices on the surrounding operational landscape, and to inform development of Alberta’s provincial forest policies,  especially concerning ecosystem health productivity, and biodiversity. The EMEND science management model is recognized nationally and internationally as a best practice for implementing integrated science in an adaptive management framework to improve natural resource management. 3. NRCan and provincial partners contributed to hold the first groundwater knowledge transfer workshop in Montérégie East, Quebec, which is providing decision-making tools to groundwater decision-makers. 4. NRCan’s Environmental Geoscience Program’s work on background seismicity is mentioned in the Strategic Environmental Assessment of Quebec hydrocarbon report which is one of the province’s decision-making tools in relation to its global energy policy. In addition, scientists from the Environmental Geoscience Program are providing expertise and sharing knowledge to help the Government of the Northwest Territories identify health related issues due to arsenic in the environment after new data was acquired on arsenic in soils, water and sediments in the Yellowknife area.	Results: Achieved 1. NRCan’s Canadian Forest Service updated its operational-scale version of Carbon Budget Model of the Canadian Forest Sector (CBM-CFS3) and provided it to stakeholders. 2. A synthesis of 15 years of scientific information from the Ecosystem Management Emulating Natural Disturbance (EMEND) experiment is nearing completion. EMEND’s research focuses on the effectiveness of ecosystem-based management in the western boreal. Lessons learned from this research are being applied to improve management practices on the surrounding operational landscape, and to inform development of Alberta’s provincial forest policies, especially concerning ecosystem health, productivity, and biodiversity. The EMEND science management model is recognized nationally and internationally as a best practice for implementing integrated science in an adaptive management framework to improve natural resource management. 3. NRCan and provincial partners contributed to hold the first groundwater knowledge transfer workshop in Montérégie East, Quebec, which is providing decision-making tools to groundwater decision-makers. 4. The Environmental Geoscience Program played a critical role in Nova Scotia by providing guidelines to remediate gold mine tailings, which allowed the province to update its policies. In addition, three scientists from the Environmental Geoscience Program were requested to testify before the Bureau d’audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE) on the development of shale gas in Quebec, thus contributing to policy decision-making in the province on that unconventional resource.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
29,619,508	29,619,508	37,951,209	35,319,980	5,700,472

The increase between Planned spending and Actual spending is mainly explained by a realignment of real property expenditures related to special purpose buildings and the Federal Infrastructure Initiative which were planned under Internal Services while actual costs were incurred under the appropriate program, in line with TBS guidelines, as well as additional funding received during the year through Supplementary Estimates for Marine Conservation Targets. Offsetting these increases is funding being moved to future years for the Gunnar mine remediation.

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
242	223	(19)

The decrease between Planned FTEs and Actual FTEs is mainly attributed to attritions and the reallocation of resources to other program areas.

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xvi

Program 3.1: Protection for Canadians and Natural Resources

Description

Natural resource development and changes in the environment pose risks to human, natural resource and infrastructure health. The objective of this Program is to enable other government departments, communities and the private sector to manage these risks and to ensure the appropriate capacity is in place. NRCan achieves this objective by providing regulation, knowledge, tools and services and by fulfilling legislated responsibilities.

Results

In 2016-17, NRCan advanced several initiatives to help enable key stakeholders to manage risks against potential hazards. To support the Government’s broader climate change agenda, NRCan focused efforts on building capacity for hazards prevention and protection of natural resources. Specifically, NRCan:

• Continued the development and operation of the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System, providing vital data on fire risks and locations of fires to strengthen protection from wildfire hazards and strengthen decision-making during major events;
• In collaboration with Parks Canada and provincial and territorial governments, updated the 2016 Canadian Wildland Fire Strategy (CWFS)^xxxv, which in turn supports the Wildland Fire Management Working Group, assists the implementation of a Canadian Wildland Fire Preparedness and Response Plan, and expands prevention and mitigation programming such as FireSmart Canada;^xxxvi
• Ensured that Canada’s seismic monitoring network will remain one of the most advanced in the world through a $16 million investment in upgrades to existing seismometers and Global Positioning System instruments across the Canadian Seismograph Network and upgraded Canada’s seismic hazard model for inclusion in the 2015 National Building Code of Canada;
• Advanced landslide monitoring experiments and natural hazard risk assessments across the country through strong collaborations with key federal partners and industry associations;
• Launched a national assessment of climate change impacts and adaptation to provide Canadians and developed and disseminated Forest Change Adaptation tools and indicators^xxxvi on climate change vulnerability in the forest sector;
• Ensured highest quality standard of reliable, safe and secure metal and material inspections through successfully obtaining international ISO certifications (ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 17024:2012) for NRCan’s National Non-Destructive Testing Certification Body (NDTCB);
• Led the development of Adaptation Platform State of Play reports on climate change adaptation and activities needed to advance adaptation action. Four-year work plans were developed on coastal management, economics, energy, forestry, infrastructure and buildings and mining;
• Provided advice on recommendations to enhance leadership and intergovernmental coordination for improved engagement and emergency response to invasive alien species, accepted by federal, provincial and territorial conservation, wildlife and biodiversity ministers in February 2017; and
• Led research on an early intervention strategy for spruce budworm outbreaks in Eastern Canada and helped develop a strategy to slow the spread of the mountain pine beetle across Canada.

The Department also ensured the safe and secure handling of explosives by:

• Conducting 755 compliance inspections of explosives facilities across Canada for which over 70% received ratings of satisfactory or better, as the administrator of the Explosives Act and Regulations;
• Advancing important progress on the Department’s Electronic Licence Management System,^xxxviii an innovative, secure, online portal for Canadians to apply, renew, amend, pay for, or check the application status of their explosives licences; and
• Completing NRCan’s commitment to the federal government’s Single Window Initiative^xxxix to enhance our security and accelerate the legitimate flow of people, goods and services at the border, as identified in the Beyond the Border Declaration. Canadians are now able to provide information to demonstrate compliance with explosives regulatory requirements in a more stream-lined, efficient manner.

Results achieved

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Governments, communities and the private sector manage risks or opportunities to natural resources, infrastructure, and human health	Number of risk assessments (climate change, geohazards, other), policies, regulations, plans, standards (codes) or guidelines developed using NRCan information or services	5 per year	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved A substantial upgrade of the seismic hazard model for Canada was completed and incorporated into the National Building Code of Canada 2015, released in June 2016. NRCan worked with Public Safety Canada to release a forward-looking guidance document on risk assessment needs in Canada. In addition, a guidance document on critical infrastructure and flood mapping was completed. NRCan is actively involved with the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) on developing new guidelines for electric power utilities to manage geomagnetic disturbances.	Results: Achieved NRCan expertise was used to develop three new risk assessments on climate change adaptation, including a risk assessment for the oil and gas sector of Northeastern British Columbia, and a risk and opportunity assessment of climate change on British Columbia electricity demand.  NRCan geohazard knowledge products contributed to five standards and guidelines developed by public and private sector organizations. NRCAN also developed seismic hazard models that were used to inform the National Research Council Canada’s 2015-2020 update of National Building Code of Canada.	Results: Achieved NRCan information was used to develop three new risk assessments and one guideline. The risk assessments delivered through the Adaptation Platform included an assessment of risks to Prince Edward Island’s coastal residences, infrastructure and heritage from rising sea levels and coastal erosion. NRCan provided ongoing geohazard expertise in support of environmental assessments for major projects. NRCan provided hazard scenarios and quantitative risk assessments in support of earthquake disaster preparedness studies carried out by the Province of British Columbia. NRCan participated in the development and revision of a number of GC emergency management plans, exercised four plans and participated in a full-scale exercise with federal and provincial agencies to test the Federal Nuclear Emergency Plan. Lessons learned from these exercises were used to improve plans.
	Number of active collaborations with the public and private sector that manage risks or opportunities to human population, natural resources and infrastructure health	6 collaboration agreements	March 31, 2017	Results: Achieved NRCan initiated three new collaborative research agreements with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to enhance surveillance techniques for damaging invasive alien species in order to mitigate risks of introduction and spread in Canada. Signed four new ‘Regional Adaptation Collaborative’ agreements to increase the dissemination of program results and to help engage new groups in managing adaptation risks in British Columbia, the Prairie provinces, Ontario, and Quebec	Results: Achieved Maintained existing networks through delivery of Canada’s Adaptation Platform, including a new initiative with Chartered Professional Accountants to inform their membership to address climate change adaptation in their work. New collaboration agreements were established with provinces, territories and other federal departments to enhance forest disturbance management across Canada. For example, a collaborative project with the Northwest Territories provided aerial survey training to forest health specialists. A collaborative agreement was also established with Ontario to develop tools for the early detection and management of emerald ash borer, a pest threatening ash trees in urban areas of southern Ontario and Quebec. The Ontario Centre for Climate Adaptation Research, Ouranos, and NRCan collaborated on a national conference (Adaptation Canada 2016) to showcase results of the federal adaptation programming, the first collaboration of its kind in 10 years.	Results: Achieved NRCan collaboration with provinces and territories in the area of forest fires and pests continued under the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers. Examples of collaboration agreements include a new governance model for Canadian wildland fire management cooperation, and the publication of two risk analyses on the management of pests affecting Canada’s forests. Three new collaborations on climate change were established through the Adaptation Platform including a new collaborative project initiated by the Platform’s Energy Working Group to estimate changes in demand for heating and cooling over the next 30 years in response to projected temperature changes in Canada. The results will inform energy supply management and planning.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
57,808,743	57,808,743	79,900,579	79,879,094	22,070,351

The increase between Planned spending and Actual spending is mainly explained by a realignment of real property expenditures related to special purpose buildings and the Federal Infrastructure Initiative which were planned under Internal Services while actual costs were incurred under the appropriate program, in line with TBS guidelines

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
427	435	8

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xvi

Program 3.2: Landmass Information

Description

Public, academic and private sectors as well as Canadians rely on up-to-date, comprehensive and accessible landmass information to make sound socio-economic and environmental decisions. This Program provides open access to Canada’s fundamental geomatics framework and information system, including accurate three-dimensional positioning, high-resolution satellite imagery and other remote sensing products, legal (boundary) surveys, mapping and other analysis applications. In addition, it delivers logistics support in the North and regulatory oversight for a robust property system framework on Canada Lands.

Results

In 2016-17 NRCan supported effective management of Canada Lands and collaboration across jurisdictions to advance interests of Canada’s natural resource sectors and respond to potential risks for Canadians. The Department accomplished this through the provision of expertise and information on Canada’s landmass in the following ways: 

• Developing the Compact Polarimetry simulation software that is being used by the Canada Space Agency to help prepare for the 2018 RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM)^{Footnote 14}. The software will allow scientists to assess the ability of new programs to use data collected from the satellite, support training and evaluation of the satellite data system (during pre-launch activities) to ensure the satellite will be capturing relevant geographical information;
• Modernizing the Canada Lands Survey^xl System through the digitization of over 100,000 documents in the Canada Lands Survey Records and shifting to electronic processes to reduce wait times for Canadians seeking regulatory approvals of legal survey documents;
• Digitizing 200,000 aerial photographs of Canada’s landmass currently housed in NRCan’s National Air Photo Library (NAPL). These original photographs provide historic value and support information requirements on historical land use for litigation, emergency response and environmental protection; and
• Creating approximately 70 satellite image products to help monitor river ice, in collaboration with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada.

NRCan also advanced it objective through the Polar Continental Shelf Program,^xli and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)^{Footnote 15} by facilitating scientific research in the Arctic region, where the harsher climates and remote locations present significant challenges, and contributing to the exercise of Canada’s sovereignty. In 2016-17, NRCan:

• Provided logistics coordination assistance to 145 projects in Canada’s Arctic and delivered over 1,400 requests for field equipment in support of science and federal government operations across the Canadian landmass.
• Participated in the 2016 Canada-Sweden Polar Expedition, a collaboration of scientists from Sweden, Denmark and the United States and Canadian scientists from NRCan, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada, to map Canada’s Arctic extended continental shelf under UNCLOS. The UNCLOS program is on track to file a submission to the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf by 2019. In addition to fulfilling Canada’s requirements as a party to UNCLOS and establishing jurisdiction over the natural resources in the area, this research provides scientific data and samples that will increase our knowledge about the history of the Arctic Ocean and its evolution.

Results achieved

Expected results	Performance indicators	Target	Date to achieve target	2016–17 Actual results	2015–16 Actual results	2014–15 Actual results
Stakeholders discover and access geospatial assets to inform decision-making, reporting, operations and research*	Satisfaction with discoverability and access to geospatial assets	Improvement over previous reporting period on satisfaction with overall discovery and access	March 31, 2018	Results: On Track Assessment tool development began in March 2017. On track to establish baseline in 2017-18.	Not available: Performance indicator did not exist in 2015-16	Not available: Performance indicator did not exist in 2014-15
Public, private sector and academia use accurate, Government of Canada geo-information for decision-making	Evidence identifying that Canada Lands Survey System activities are meeting stakeholder needs	At least one source of evidence from First Nations, other government departments and industry for the Canada Lands Survey System	March 31, 2018	Results: On track Evidence collected for 2016-17 indicated that stakeholder needs were met. The new Yukon Land Titles Act officially recognizes the Surveyor General as the Survey Authority. This has resulted in increased business integration with improved service delivery. A study on cadastral datasets in the North showed their widespread usage within the three territorial governments and found the data to be reliable and current.  The study recommended improved communications about Canada Lands Survey System services in the North. An industry-focused cost study demonstrated the Canada Lands Survey System to be comparable with survey systems on private or provincial lands. The study recommended more education for surveyors and lands administrators on the process and tools available to further reduce costs.	Results: On Track Evidence collected for 2015-16 indicates that stakeholder needs were met and benefits from modernization of the Canada Lands Survey System were realized by stakeholders. Stakeholders identified areas for improvement including increased alignment with the Yukon Land Titles System.	Not available: Performance indicator did not exist in 2014-15
Polar Continental Shelf Program (PCSP) clients receive cost-effective logistics support needed to conduct field work safely in Canada’s Arctic and Subarctic regions	Level of client satisfaction with mix, quality and cost of support received	85% of clients are either satisfied or very satisfied	March 31, 2017	Results: Not available The client satisfaction survey is administered every three years. No survey was conducted in 2016-17. The next survey is planned for 2018-19.	Results: 90% Through a client satisfaction questionnaire administered in 2015-16, 90% of respondents indicated they were either satisfied or very satisfied with the mix and quality of logistics support provided by the PCSP.	Not available: Performance indicator did not exist in 2014-15

*In the 2016-17 RPP, the performance indicator, “Percentage of clients who are satisfied with Canada’s legal boundary framework for effective governance, economic and social development” was determined not relevant to this Expected Result and has been removed.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
75,092,662	75,092,662	93,523,442	74,793,210	(299,452)

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
408	387	(21)

The decrease between Planned FTEs and Actual FTEs is mainly attributed to the reallocation of resources and staff departures.

Supporting information on results, financial and human resources relating to NRCan’s lower-level programs is available on InfoBase.^xvi

Internal Services

Description

Internal Services are those groups of related activities and resources that the federal government considers to be services in support of programs and/or required to meet corporate obligations of an organization. Internal Services refers to the activities and resources of the 10 distinct service categories that support Program delivery in the organization, regardless of the Internal Services delivery model in a department. The 10 service categories are: Management and Oversight Services; Communications Services; Legal Services; Human Resources Management Services; Financial Management Services; Information Management Services; Information Technology Services; Real Property Services; Materiel Services; and Acquisition Services.

Results

In 2016-17, NRCan continued it efforts to support the Department in advancing the Minister’s mandate letter commitments and Government of Canada priorities, including in the following areas:

Openness and transparency

As part of its efforts to increase capacity to engage with stakeholders, foster greater transparency and accountability, share knowledge and report on performance, NRCan:

• Revitalized NRCan’s public engagement function through the creation of a Stakeholder Engagement Unit that:
  • Increased and expanded use of existing departmental social media channels, including Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram, and enhanced the use of web consultation platforms to complement in-person engagement. This helped to obtain views from over 40,000 Canadians that fed into policy and program development.   
  • Supported public engagement on all mandate priority areas, including facilitating dialogue between experts, scientists and other stakeholders to inform advice provided to the Minister on mandate letter commitments.
• Made significant progress in advancing Open Government Initiative,^xlii by:
  • Contributing to the Government of Canada’s (GC) open data^xliii portal by providing data sets that account for 90% of all data on the Portal.
  • Leading the Federal Geospatial Platform (FGP),^xliv interface with the GC portal, including the open maps^xlv
  • Launching the Federal Science Library (FSL),^xlvi a one-stop, self-serve web portal that allows for sharing of scientific knowledge, and makes government research and data resources available to all Canadians.

Increasing operational efficiency

In 2016-17, NRCan invested in modernizing Departmental infrastructure and processes to increase efficiency. Specifically, the Department:

• Invested over $43.2M under the Federal Infrastructure Initiative (II) and $25.2M under the Federal Infrastructure Initiative (III) to:
  • Support laboratory modernizations in NRCan’s research facilities to keep in step with the requirements of sophisticated scientific research; and
  • Upgrade its real property holdings with energy-efficient systems, such as heat recovery systems and LED lighting, which boost future energy savings and contribute to a reduced carbon footprint for the Department;
• Implemented a new staffing approach, aligned with the Public Service Commission’s New Direction in Staffing, to reduce administrative processes and increase added value to managers;
• Launched a Classification Renewal project to replace the aged Broadband Work Descriptions with standardized job descriptions (SJDs). SJDs will streamline classification and staffing activities; and
• Improved Information Technology (IT) security by successfully completing Phase 2 of NRCan’s Cyber Security Action Plan. This phase included the implementation of additional security measures, such as formal documentation of IT security processes and procedures, development of a vulnerability management program, and cybersecurity training for NRCan employees.

Policy, science and management excellence

NRCan set the foundation for future policy, science and management excellence by:  

• Completing a rigorous exercise for executive positions to make targeted staffing decisions in support of Departmental priorities, as part of the Department’s talent and performance management;
• Developing and implementing the Mental Health and Wellness in the Workplace Strategy to reduce stigma, increase awareness and support for employees. As part of the strategy, NRCan:
  • Identified champions for Mental Health and Fitness and Wellness;
  • Created a Mental Health Joint Working Group with bargaining agents; and
  • Delivered practical mental health and workplace wellness training to executives and employees;
• Developing a cross-sectoral Medium- to Long-Term Economic and Policy Research Agenda to support evidence-based decision-making;
• Contracting nine research papers with external experts that addressed knowledge gaps on NRCan priorities and supported evidence-based decision-making:  
  • Four papers were produced under the theme of “Supporting the Transition to a Low-Carbon Economy”; the other five under the theme of “Deepening Knowledge on Canada’s Priority Trade Relations”; and
• Launching three Action Learning Teams (ALTs) as part of the NRCan Science and Policy Integration Leadership Bootcamp, bringing together cross-sectoral science and policy professionals who conducted analysis and developed recommendations on complex topics using new policy instruments, such as the Federal Geospatial Platform. ALT reports provided evidence-based content that fed into NRCan science and policy planning, as well as recommendations on the use of new policy instruments.

Budgetary financial resources (dollars)

2016–17 Main Estimates	2016–17 Planned spending	2016–17 Total authorities available for use	2016–17 Actual spending (authorities used)	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
184,517,755	184,517,755	167,923,770	125,907,344	(58,610,411)

The decrease between Planned spending and Actual spending is mainly attributable to the realignment of the Federal Infrastructure Initiative (FII) and real property expenditures related to special purpose buildings which were planned under Internal Services while actual costs were incurred under the appropriate program, in line with TBS guidelines. Furthermore, the FII reported a surplus to be carried forward to next year. Other factors offsetting these decreases include additional funding received through Supplementary Estimates for the FII and various other programs.

Human resources (full-time equivalents)

2016–17 Planned	2016–17 Actual	2016–17 Difference (actual minus planned)
936	906	(30)

The decrease between Planned FTEs and Actual FTEs is mainly attributed to the reallocation of resources and staff departures.