OTTAWA — CHRIS SEVERSON-BAKER, Executive Director at the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to the federal government’s 2026 Spring Economic Update:
“Today’s federal economic update paints the picture of a country with all the potential to embrace the global clean energy transition and future-proof its economy during this particularly uncertain time, but struggling to land the how.
“We were looking for the signals the clean energy and clean tech industries need to invest, but instead, action has been punted to future strategies and updates.
“As the world grapples with the worst energy crisis in decades, countries around the world are rushing to the security, reliability and affordability renewable energy sources now deliver. Unfortunately, Canada is not yet leaning into our potential as a clean energy superpower. With national security and affordability top of mind for Canadians, we should be working to decouple our economy from volatile, inflationary oil and gas markets – not further entrench it.
“We look forward to the upcoming federal Electricity Strategy, updated Climate Competitiveness Strategy, and outcomes of the federal-Alberta MOU negotiations for details on Canada’s commitment to double its supply of clean electricity, so Canadians can electrify how we live and work faster than ever, making life more affordable, healthier and safer.
“On the government’s plan to recruit, train, and hire 80,000 to 100,000 new skilled trade workers by 2030-31, these workers should be prepared to engage in the clean energy transition. This will require stronger collaboration among labour, education, government, and industry, alongside intentional workforce planning so workers and communities can benefit. Given the speed and urgency of global economic change, this must move quickly with clear timelines, coordinated leadership across sectors, and sustained funding.
“As Prime Minister Carney has remarked, “reducing emissions is not just a moral duty, it's an economic imperative” – we call on him to ensure Budget 2027 recognizes this and positions Canada to lead in the global clean energy economy.”
