We are living through a defining geopolitical moment for energy systems.
Around the world, energy systems are being affected by conflict, economic volatility, and shifting global alliances. Countries that remain dependent on fossil fuels face higher exposure to price shocks, supply disruptions, and geopolitical pressure.
And so, many countries and consumers are moving away from fossil fuels and toward a greater share of domestically produced, often renewable electricity to power their grids, electrify their economies, and reduce their vulnerability to energy price shocks in citizens’ everyday lives.
The numbers bear it out. The International Energy Agency is now tracking more than 50 countries where governments are urging citizens to take steps to conserve energy, such as limiting use of air conditioning in tropical climates, or minimizing daily commutes.
In response, consumers are taking it upon themselves to adopt electrified clean energy options to avoid volatile gasoline and natural gas prices. 1.75 million electric vehicles were sold globally in March 2026, a 66% increase on the previous month. In Europe, demand for rooftop and plug-in balcony solar panels has skyrocketed since the conflict began.
For Canada, the challenge is clear: how do we keep up with this global push towards electrified economies and protect our national security, economic stability, and sovereignty in an increasingly unstable world?
The answer is just as clear: by building a stronger, bigger, reliable, clean electricity system.
Why clean electricity is central to Canada’s energy security
The transition from fossil fuels to clean electricity is not only about climate goals. It is about reducing vulnerability to global energy markets while strengthening domestic resilience.
Canada has a chance to lead. We already have one of the cleanest electricity grids in the world, thanks to the breadth of our geography that means every province has excellent clean electricity resources to take advantage of – from hydro in B.C. and Quebec, to nuclear in Ontario, to wind and solar across the windy, sunny prairies.
But the grid we have now simply isn’t going to be enough. As Canada electrifies — from more of us driving EVs to installing heat pumps in our homes — we’re going to need to rapidly expand our supply to keep up with demand. While we do that, it’s imperative we maintain our low-cost clean electricity advantage, to ensure our economy is globally competitive, and that energy costs are as low as possible for Canadian families.
Renewables aren’t subject to volatile global energy markets. Nobody can block access to the sun or apply tariffs to the wind. Clean electricity reduces Canada’s exposure to global energy shocks while increasing domestic energy independence.
How clean electricity strengthens Canada’s economy
Clean electricity has become a strategic national asset, essential to Canada’s energy security, industrial competitiveness, and economic independence. And that’s in addition to the climate and health benefits.
A reliable, affordable, and clean power grid delivers long-term economic benefits. But just as important, building it creates jobs, drives investment, and strengthens Canadian supply chains.
Together, this allows Canada to:
- Electrify transportation and reduce reliance on imported fuels
- Modernize industrial facilities
- Create low-carbon supply chains in industries like manufacturing, critical minerals processing, and data infrastructure
- Become a reliable trading partner in a low-carbon future.
Clean electricity supports long term prosperity across sectors and industries.
How the Pembina Institute is advancing clean electricity in Canada
Despite global momentum, here at home, this transition will not happen on its own. Expanding electricity generation, strengthening interprovincial connections, and modernizing grids will require coordinated planning, evidence-based policy, and long-term investment.
But with the federal government’s recently launched National Electricity Strategy, there is a big opportunity to make progress.
That’s where the Pembina Institute comes in.
For over 40 years, the Pembina Institute has provided evidence-based energy analysis and policy solutions that Canadian governments can implement to make our lives better and economies stronger. We work with governments, Indigenous communities, industry, and civil society to advance practical solutions that strengthen Canada’s electricity systems while keeping energy affordable and reliable.
Every day, our teams:
- Advance research to help jurisdictions scale clean power faster
- Provide policy advice to modernize grids and connect regions
- Support decisions that reduce costs, improve reliability, and expand economic opportunity
- Work to inform Canadians on the benefits of renewable energy in their communities
As a registered charity, our work depends on people who believe that smart energy choices are essential to Canada’s future.
As global uncertainty rises, investing in Canada’s electricity future is one of the most tangible ways to strengthen our country.
With your help, we can ensure Canada leads with confidence, resilience, and purpose.
Thank you for standing with us when it matters most.
