Canada's Gas Dependence Sparks Calls for Rebuilding West-to-East Infrastructure

Millions of Canadians rely on imported natural gas from the United States, with Ontario and Quebec consuming two-thirds of their supply. This dependence has raised concerns about energy security in light of rising trade tensions between Ottawa and Washington.

The Canada Energy Regulator reports that the U.S. exports nearly three billion cubic feet of natural gas per day into Canada, with 90% entering Ontario and Quebec. According to Dulles Wang, a Calgary-based director at Wood Mackenzie's natural gas and LNG research team, 'And it didn't use to be this way.'

In the past, importing American gas made economic sense due to its proximity to Eastern Canada and lower transportation costs compared to Alberta's major producing fields. However, in an era of tariffs and unpredictable trade policy, some politicians and industry leaders see this reliance as a strategic vulnerability.