The federal government has launched consultations for a new National Electricity Strategy aimed at doubling Canada’s electricity grid capacity by 2050, setting off renewed political debate over energy affordability, reliability and regulation.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the strategy Thursday, saying Canada must rapidly expand electricity generation and modernize transmission systems as energy demand continues to rise.
The federal government says the plan will focus on four key areas including expanding electricity infrastructure, improving east-west grid connections, training skilled workers and increasing domestic manufacturing tied to energy technologies.
Ottawa says electricity demand could double by 2050 as industries become more energy intensive and as Canada moves toward greater electrification. The Liberals argue the strategy could eventually reduce overall energy costs while strengthening Canada’s energy security and economic competitiveness.
The announcement also highlights continued federal support for hydroelectric, nuclear, wind and transmission projects across the country, including Ontario’s Darlington New Nuclear project.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre sharply criticized the plan, accusing the Liberals of increasing electricity costs and creating development delays through industrial carbon pricing and federal approval processes.
In a statement released Thursday, Poilievre argued Canadians are already paying significantly more for electricity under Liberal energy policies and called the strategy “an illusion.”
The Conservatives say they would eliminate industrial carbon pricing on electricity generation and remove federal approval barriers tied to major energy projects.
The federal consultations are expected to continue over the coming months with provinces, Indigenous communities, utilities and industry groups.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
