I recently read a compelling piece by Diane Francis that helped crystalize something I’ve believed for a long time: Canada has the potential to be a true energy superpower — but only if we act like one.
Francis argues that the U.S. and Canada are sitting on massive geopolitical leverage thanks to our energy resources. She’s right. North America is now the world’s energy engine — from LNG and oil to hydro and nuclear — and we should be using that leverage to build economic strength, geopolitical influence, and long-term security.
The U.S. has already moved aggressively. They’re now the world’s largest LNG exporter with over 170 processing facilities. Meanwhile, Canada has stalled, bogged down in political posturing and regulatory red tape. We’ve let major LNG projects die on the vine while global demand surges and allies seek stable, democratic sources of energy.
This needs to change.
We should be building a fully integrated North American energy market — one that sets prices based on supply and demand, not OPEC’s manipulations. A market that rewards producers fairly and gives consumers affordable, stable prices. One that can supply not only ourselves, but Europe, Japan, and others who no longer want to depend on Russia or Iran for energy.
Mark Carney has said he wants Canada to be an energy superpower. If that’s serious, then the first step is simple: reverse course on the anti-resource stance that’s held us back. Resurrect the LNG projects. Embrace hydrocarbons, renewables, nuclear, and hydro alike. And work with the U.S. — not just diplomatically, but commercially and strategically — to lead the free world’s energy future.
I’m Canadian. I believe in our capacity to lead. I believe our energy sector, if unleashed, can be a force for good — both economically and geopolitically. Diane Francis’ article reminded me of that. It’s time we stop apologizing for our resources and start using them to build a stronger, safer, more independent world.