Over the last year, there’s been a seismic shift in the energy policy context. The list of changes is long and growing:

• mounting concerns over affordability, productivity and economic growth;

• the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency and the spectre — now reality – of tariffs on Canadian goods and energy;

• retaliatory tariffs announced by the federal government – and the potential for even higher tariffs to be imposed by President Trump in response;

• the collapse of political and public support for the consumer carbon tax;

• the resignation of Justin Trudeau as Liberal Party leader and the federal Liberal leadership race now underway;

• the international weakening of corporate and financial sector commitment to climate action; and,

• global geopolitical and security volatility.

All of this is taking place with a federal election fast approaching.

Collectively, the changes are driving a strategic realignment of policy priorities. Climate is descending on political agendas, while affordability, energy security, competitiveness and economic growth are on the upswing.

Where do Canadians stand on the issues? Over the last year, polling results from the University of Ottawa’s Positive Energy program and Nanos Research reveal some big shifts in Canadians’ views.

A four-part series that we’re launching today dives into the numbers.

Part I highlights the new balance Canadians want the country to strike among energy, environment and economy, one that sees more priority given to economic growth and jobs.

Part II shares Canadians’ views on the country’s domestic and global energy future. Canadians are bullish on oil and gas, and they are beginning to have reservations about electrifying more of their energy needs.

Part III focuses on how Canadians score government performance on energy and climate issues. Public confidence in government action is at an all-time low.   

Part IV looks at who Canadians think should be making and influencing energy and climate policy decisions. On a number of issues, people are looking for federal leadership, but they want non-partisan decision-making and they want governments to seek industry and expert advice to inform their choices.

While public opinion isn’t the only thing informing policy, it is a huge factor, especially in the lead up to and during elections.

Big changes in Canadians’ views over the last year will shape party platforms for the federal election, they will shape government responses to President Trump’s threats and actions, and they will shape policy choices now and in the months ahead.

The transformations in the energy policy landscape make it more important than ever to understand where Canadians stand on the issues.