In October 2024, the provincial government officially set out the goal of becoming an “Energy Superpower” in its energy strategy. It stands to reason that the plot on slide 6 showing a 15% increase in electricity demand forecast between 2024 and 2025 is as a result of that declaration, rather than an actual increase in projected demand. It was a huge increase in forecasted energy needs in just one year.
In October 2025 many reports indicate that Canada is in a period of significant economic slow-down with risks of recession. Consequently, there are uncertainties about the immediate and long-term future. In addition, billion dollar deals with Stellantis and Nexstar are causing even more uncertainty.
Do we really want to jump the gun with additional hydroelectric projects that would commit the province to funding the planning of these boondoggle projects in such an uncertain climate? Especially when the province is proposing legislation to place partnering Indigenous’ upfront planning costs on the shoulders of ratepayers?