Canadians desire to electrify more of their energy needs is on the decline: National Survey

A new survey from the University of Ottawa shows concerns over affordability are dampening Canadians’ desire to take climate action.

This public opinion study performed by Nanos Research for uOttawa’s Positive Energy program surveyed over 1,000 Canadians, gauging their opinions on climate ambition, electrifying more of their energy needs and government performance keeping energy affordable. It also delved into views on the alignment of climate policies with the views of Canadians and partnerships with Indigenous communities for energy projects.

“These new research findings are sobering for governments working to reduce Canada’s emissions: Canadians’ interest in electrification is on the decline, they’re worried about energy affordability, and they score governments poorly on keeping energy affordable while the country works to meet its climate goals,” says Faculty of Social Sciences Professor Monica Gattinger, Founding Chair of Positive Energy and Director of the Institute for Science, Society and Policy.

“Canadians want climate action, but to maintain public support for emissions reductions, policymakers will need to make sure climate measures also meet Canadians’ need for affordable reliable energy.”

The key findings from the survey can be consulted here. The full survey can be found here.

The University of Ottawa’s Positive Energy program brings together academic researchers and senior decision-makers from industry, government, Indigenous communities, local communities and environmental organizations to determine how to strengthen public confidence in energy decision-making.