Concerns about energy security are escalating in Quebec, with a survey revealing that 39% of residents mistakenly believe the province has an energy surplus. A significant majority, 67%, worry that electricity demand may soon exceed supply, leading to higher costs, which could heavily impact businesses. Owners express fears over escalating bills, while calls for diversifying energy sources, including nuclear and natural gas, have intensified. The survey indicates widespread anxiety regarding future energy availability and pricing.
Energy Concerns Grow Among Quebecers
Hydro-Québec’s message appears to be falling on deaf ears, as a recent survey reveals that 39% of Quebec residents mistakenly believe the province is still in an energy surplus. This disconnect highlights a troubling trend, with energy insecurity rising among the populace.
According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), more than two-thirds of Quebecers (67%) express worries that the demand for electricity may soon outstrip production capabilities. Furthermore, a significant 84% anticipate that an energy shortfall could lead to increased electricity costs.
Business Owners Voice Their Concerns
The implications of these energy concerns are not lost on business owners. Anick Cormier, manager of Délires & Délices – Microbrewery in Chambly, shared her apprehensions over her annual Hydro-Québec bill of $18,000. She fears that if Hydro-Québec finances its ambitious plans, her bill could skyrocket to $32,500 in less than a decade. Cormier referred to a Union of Consumers study suggesting that electricity rates may climb annually by 5.6% to 9% starting in 2028, significantly higher than the government’s promised 3% increase.
“Who will cover that cost? It will fall to my customers,” she lamented, questioning whether patrons would be willing to pay $25 for a beer that currently costs $11. “Raising prices could deter customers from visiting my establishment,” she added.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Pierre Laplante from the private residence for seniors, Château Pierrefonds, who warned that Quebec is on the brink of an energy crisis. This potential deficit poses a serious concern for small and medium-sized enterprises across the province, as rising energy costs threaten their sustainability.
A Call for Action
François Vincent of the CFIB describes the survey results as a crucial wake-up call for the government and its new minister, Christine Fréchette. “They must effectively utilize Bill 69 to navigate the energy transition responsibly. Everyone supports the transition, but no one wants to shoulder the financial burden,” he stated.
Vincent urged the province to diversify its energy sources, suggesting that options like nuclear and natural gas should not be overlooked. “Right now, we’re placing all our bets on Hydro-Québec,” he noted.
Amidst these challenges, Quebec’s SMEs are grappling with rising costs, a decline in demand, and labor shortages, compounded by the looming threat of energy insecurity and the ramifications of Hydro-Québec’s extensive investments.
Survey Insights
The survey provides a snapshot of public opinion regarding Quebec’s energy situation:
- Total surplus: 39%
- Total deficit: 17%
- – Very large surplus: 10%
- – Slight surplus: 29%
- – Balance (produces as much as it uses): 21%
- – Slight deficit: 12%
- – Very large deficit: 5%
- – I don’t know: 22%
Looking ahead to the next 10 to 15 years, perceptions of energy availability are concerning:
- Total concerning: 67%
- Total not concerning: 25%
- – Very concerning: 18%
- – Quite concerning: 49%
- – Slightly concerning: 20%
- – Not concerning at all: 5%
- – I don’t know: 8%
In the event of an energy deficit, the expectation for electricity pricing is clear:
- Increase: 84%
- Stay the same: 14%
- Decrease: 1%
Methodology: This survey involved 1,000 Quebec adults and was conducted online from October 24 to 28, 2024. Participants were selected through online panels, with interviews available in both French and English based on individual preference.