The critical role of natural gas in Canada is most apparent when the snow starts falling. Almost 7 million Canadian homes depend on the country’s most reliable and affordable fuel choice to meet critical heating needs, as fall gives way to winter.
We are seeing more than seasonal change these days though – it is happening in politics, too. Donald Trump’s return to the White House, alongside Republican gains in the US Congress, point to a significant re-direction in American energy policy. As of January 20th, the implications of a plan for ‘U.S. energy dominance’ will begin to be revealed, and natural gas is expected to be a big beneficiary. The once and future President has said his administration will deliver more energy reliability, economic growth, and geopolitical strength. Policies aimed at easing infrastructure restrictions, streamlining regulations, and boosting gas production are all expected.
For Canada, this shift brings both opportunities and challenges. If there is material economic growth and gas sector expansion in the U.S. it will deliver derivative benefits for Canada as it always does. Living next to the world’s biggest economy has its privileges. However, a lack of similar energy sector support in Canada will mean investment will be more attracted to the US, compounding existing affordability challenges in Canada.
Our political commentator discussion on this issue speaks to this point. We have asked our contributors to provide their assessments of how political parties are positioning themselves to address energy affordability in Canada.
In our spotlight interview, we profile our new Board Chair, Roger Dall’Antonia, President and CEO of FortisBC. Dall’Antonia has led FortisBC with a clear focus on the reliability and sustainability of energy delivery. Since assuming the role, he has emphasized a customer-centric approach, and he talks about what that means for British Columbia.
Natural gas is overwhelmingly methane, and methane has been front and centre in many domestic and international policy discussions of late. This issue includes a piece discussing the vital role methane plays and how the Canadian gas industry is working to effectively manage methane emissions with both existing and emerging practices and technologies.
We also had the opportunity this issue to speak with Imad Khaled, CGA’s 2023 Young Business Leader of the Year and Director of Engineering and Construction Services at Apex Utilities Inc. He reminds us that, as the world’s sixth-largest energy producer, Canada is well-positioned to meet growing global energy demand. With supportive policies, Canada’s innovative energy sector is equipped to deliver responsibly produced energy for our customers here and those around the world.
And finally, our SMC profile with EWI reinforces natural gas as an essential part of the energy mix, helping to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future.
Keeping Canadians warm and keeping our economy running smoothly 24/7 is what the natural gas industry is all about, and we in the industry are thankful for the opportunity we have to serve Canadians by meeting these needs.
In a troubled world, we have much to be thankful for as Canadians, something we all reflect on at this time of year – may there be “peace on earth, goodwill towards men,” and may all our readers have a safe and happy holiday season.
A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!