Now Is the Time to Double Down on Renewables: Shielding Canada from Increased Demand and Political Uncertainty

by Dan Roscoe, CEO of Roswall

Canada stands at a pivotal moment in its energy future. As demand for electricity surges and global political uncertainty threatens economic stability, investing in renewable energy is no longer just an environmental imperative—it’s a national necessity.

The choices we make today will determine whether we remain vulnerable to unpredictable market forces or build a future of energy security, economic resilience, and independence.

Electricity consumption across the country is rising at an unprecedented rate. The mass adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is already increasing the demand for clean power, and this shift will only accelerate as transportation networks transition away from fossil fuels. Meanwhile, energy-intensive industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, and high-tech manufacturing are expanding, placing even greater strain on the grid. With Canada’s population steadily growing and urbanization accelerating, residential and commercial energy needs are set to climb for decades to come.

However, our existing infrastructure is struggling to keep up. Canada’s aging electrical grid was not designed to handle this level of demand, and without significant investment, the cracks in the system will widen. Price volatility from imported energy sources further complicates the situation, exposing businesses and households to rising costs. The consequences of an unprepared energy system are already evident in periodic price spikes and supply shortages—signals that the system is under stress. Without decisive action, these challenges will become even more severe.

Political and Economic Uncertainty Threaten Energy Stability

The geopolitical landscape is shifting, making reliance on fossil fuel imports increasingly risky. Supply chain disruptions have led to volatile pricing in global energy markets, exposing Canada to unpredictable costs. Energy trade agreements that once provided stability are becoming less reliable as international priorities change, leaving us vulnerable to sudden shifts in policy and availability.

Canada’s reliance on imported fuels is a growing liability. Every megawatt of energy sourced externally ties us to global market fluctuations, which can be influenced by economic downturns, geopolitical conflicts, and supply constraints. By contrast, strengthening our domestic energy supply would insulate us from these risks. Localized production ensures greater control over energy pricing and availability, allowing provinces and communities to develop resilient systems that can withstand global instability.

Renewables as the Key to Energy Security

The solution to Canada’s energy challenges is already within our grasp. Renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydro provide abundant, domestically generated power that can stabilize costs and secure supply. Unlike fossil fuels, renewables are not subject to the same market fluctuations or geopolitical risks, making them a reliable foundation for our energy future.

Modernizing Canada’s grid is also a critical step. Advances in battery storage now allow renewable energy to be stored and distributed efficiently, mitigating concerns about intermittency. Smart grid technology enables real-time energy management, optimizing usage and reducing waste. By investing in interprovincial energy networks, Canada can balance supply and demand more effectively, ensuring that excess renewable power in one region can support another when needed.

The Economic Advantages of Renewables

Beyond energy security, the economic benefits of renewables are undeniable. Expanding the clean energy sector will create thousands of high-quality jobs in manufacturing, construction, and technology. Investment in local infrastructure will strengthen domestic industries, reducing the need for foreign energy imports and keeping capital within Canada. A diversified energy portfolio will also protect the economy from the volatility associated with fossil fuel markets, making Canada more resilient to external shocks.

Renewables also offer long-term cost stability. Unlike fossil fuels, which are subject to price swings, the costs of wind, solar, and hydro are largely fixed after initial investment. As technology advances, these costs continue to decline, offering businesses and households a predictable and affordable energy future. Government incentives and private sector investment are further accelerating cost reductions, ensuring that renewable energy becomes the most cost-effective option in the long run.

Canada’s leadership in renewable energy can also position us as a global supplier of clean power. Countries around the world are ramping up their renewable energy commitments, creating new opportunities for export. By developing our renewable infrastructure now, we can become a major player in international energy markets, securing trade advantages and attracting investment. Aligning with global climate commitments will further strengthen our economic partnerships, making Canada a leader in the next era of energy innovation.

Some argue that renewables aren’t reliable enough to replace fossil fuels. However, grid integration and storage solutions are rapidly improving, making renewable energy as dependable as conventional sources. Canada already has a strong foundation in hydroelectric power, which can serve as a backbone to support intermittent sources like wind and solar. By leveraging these existing resources, we can ensure a stable and consistent energy supply.

Others claim that fossil fuels remain essential to economic growth. While they have played a crucial role in Canada’s development, the global energy transition is already reshaping markets. Nations that fail to adapt risk being left behind as the world shifts toward cleaner alternatives. Delaying investment in renewables would only leave us vulnerable to economic stagnation and stranded assets. By taking a proactive approach now, Canada can secure long-term prosperity and maintain its leadership in energy innovation.

An Opportunity to Control Our Future

Canada’s energy future is at a crossroads. With demand rising and political uncertainty growing, we can either remain tied to volatile global markets or take control of our own destiny through renewables. Investing in clean energy now will provide stability, economic security, and independence, ensuring that Canadians are protected from the disruptions of an unpredictable world.

Governments, businesses, and individuals must act decisively to accelerate the shift to renewables. By doubling down on clean energy investment, we can secure a prosperous and resilient future for Canada—one where we are no longer at the mercy of global instability but in charge of our own energy destiny.

Now is the time to act. The choices we make today will define our future for generations to come.