"The replacement for fossil fuels is not readily available and definitely out of the price range of 90% of Canadians."
Subsidize the switch with the money from the Carbon Tax, next.
"The carbon tax is just a cash grab."
Every Tax is a cash grab. But unlike actual cash grabs the money gained from Taxes is reinvested into the people and can be used to subsidize the replacement of fossil fuels, fund the healthcare system, public works, schools and more. I think you are under the mistaken assumption that the Money is taken and the politicians horde it for themselves.
"What could he have done different? Solar Co-ops for communities. Solar and wind incentives. Subsidize the purchase of electric/hybrid cars. Tax disincentives for high pollution vehicles"
He can do that alongside a carbon Tax to make renewable energy even more tempting