Canadian Women Unite Around Energy Independence

Engaged women across Canada are calling for decisive action on energy development and independence as part of securing the country's prosperity, according to new research from Canada Powered by Women (CPW). The organization has been touring the country with its Powering Prosperity national tour, sharing data and hearing insights from women in various regions. Across all stops, a consistent theme emerged: women connect energy policy directly to cost of living, job stability, and Canada's ability to build independence and compete economically.

In Regina, Saskatchewan, export-driven economy made the relationship between energy, agriculture, and infrastructure a central theme. Women there see the cross-sector connections clearly, particularly when pipeline capacity is constrained, displacing rail cars for grain farmers. In Halifax, Nova Scotia, women expressed optimism about the direction of energy development, including offshore oil and gas, but emphasized the need for implementation.

In Calgary, women were specific: they want to see decisions that translate into projects, with reasonable timelines and predictable conditions for capital. Toronto's discussion highlighted nuclear, natural gas, and hydro as contributors to Ontario's energy needs, demonstrating the importance of a diverse energy mix. British Columbia brought up existing policies made for a different time and context.

Canada Powered by Women CEO Tracey Bodnarchuk notes that their research amplifies the voices and perspectives of engaged women, revealing connections between energy resources, prosperity, jobs, and social systems. This can be a unifying force to help move Canada forward.