An alliance of more than 700 companies, unions, governments and industry associations are demanding that Canada develops an energy strategy to help make it a global leader in the sector.

They want a “21st century” model which will help slow global warming and reduce pollution and create jobs and clean energy for future generations.

The Clean Energy Canada programme, which represents interests of millions of Canadians, has asked for investments to be made for a clean nation.

Merran Smith, Director of the Energy Initiative at Tides Canada said: “We must urgently create a plan to transition the nation to the low-carbon, clean energy economy we want and will need tomorrow.”

Canadian authorities are expected to discuss about a strategy later this month at their annual Council of the Federation summit.