What is the role of energy efficiency in a trade war?
As global trade tensions escalate, Canada’s economic priorities are shifting toward greater security and self-reliance. In this landscape, energy efficiency emerges as a powerful and immediate solution. By reducing dependence on volatile global supply chains and creating local jobs in construction, manufacturing, and services, energy efficiency investments can buffer Canadian households and businesses from the ripple effects of trade disruptions. This strategy supports both economic resilience and climate goals.
Putting efficiency and energy production on equal footing
Brendan Haley, Senior Director of Policy Strategy at Efficiency Canada, co-signed a letter published in La Presse advocating for energy efficiency to be prioritized alongside supply-side energy options. The letter emphasizes the importance of integrating energy efficiency measures into energy planning to achieve a sustainable and cost-effective future.
ACEEE: State Energy Efficiency Scorecard
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) has released the 16th edition of its Scorecard, evaluating all 50 states and the District of Columbia on their progress in advancing energy efficiency through policies and programs. As utility bills continue to rise, states are increasingly turning to efficiency measures to reduce energy use, lower costs for households and businesses, and cut emissions. The Scorecard highlights top performers, most improved states, and key trends shaping energy efficiency efforts nationwide.
The 2025 National Inventory Report
In 2023, Canada released 694 million tonnes of greenhouse gases, its lowest level in 27 years, not counting the drop during the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s 8.5% less than in 2005. This progress shows that Canada’s economy is growing in a cleaner, more sustainable way, with emissions per unit of economic activity down by 34%. Big improvements came from two key areas: emissions from oil and gas leaks (fugitive emissions) dropped by 33% since 2013, thanks to methane regulations, and emissions from making electricity fell by 34% as Canada moved away from coal and used cleaner energy sources instead.
The Canada Green Building Council launches Retrofits Now
This new initiative is aimed at providing Canadian commercial and institutional real estate owners with the confidence and clarity needed to accelerate deep retrofits. In partnership with Purpose Building Inc., this platform offers tools and insights to advance decarbonization efforts within Canada’s built environment.
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s new Housing Design Catalogue
Featuring 50 regionally tailored home designs across every province. Each design will be available with full downloadable architectural packages, including drawings, technical and energy performance guidance, cost summaries, and accessibility options.
Community energy justice: A review of origins, convergence, and a research agenda
A new paper by the University of Toronto’s Laura Tozer and Emmanuel Taiwo examines how the concept of community can serve as an effective tool for promoting justice and equity in energy transitions. It offers insights for policymakers and civic actors developing energy justice initiatives and highlights further research opportunities, including exploring broader social justice linkages, identifying barriers, and understanding motivations.
The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada has released the Phase I report of its Bridging the Gap initiative
The report aims to address the challenges faced by the industry as it transitions from fossil fuel heat sources to emission-free heat pumps. It highlights areas where technicians need improved knowledge and offers strategies to ensure the workforce thrives in a low-carbon economy.
The Québec government launches public consultations on future energy strategy
Québec has kicked off public consultations to shape a strategic energy plan, a roadmap toward a decarbonized economy by 2050. Citizens are invited to weigh in on how the province should evolve its energy production and consumption to meet climate targets. However, environmental groups have raised concerns, calling the process rushed and lacking transparency, urging the government to adopt a more inclusive and democratic approach.
The Province of British Columbia is implementing a rate stability plan for BC Hydro
In response to economic uncertainties, BC will cap annual electricity rate increases at 3.75% for the next two years. For the average residential customer, this equates to an additional $3.75 per month. This measure aims to provide predictability for consumers while supporting investments in renewable energy infrastructure to bolster the province’s clean-energy advantage. The initiative ensures that electricity rates remain below cumulative inflation and among the lowest in North America.
EnergyForward New Homes program is here
Efficiency Nova Scotia’s new program supports the construction of ultra energy-efficient single-family homes with operating costs of $1,000 or less per year. Eligible participants can receive up to $25,000 in incentives, along with expert guidance throughout the planning and building process.
Registration is $199 + tax and must be completed within 30 days of receiving a building permit or before construction starts. Homeowners, builders, First Nations communities, developers, and designers are all welcome to apply.
Canada Invests in Retrofits for Community Housing in St. John’s, Newfoundland
The federal government is investing $5.4 million through Natural Resources Canada’s Greener Neighbourhoods Pilot Program to support deep energy retrofits for 101 municipally owned community housing units in St. John’s. The City is contributing $4.4 million and has secured an additional $1.66 million from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Affordable Housing Fund for these improvements and repairs to 65 additional units. These retrofits aim to reduce energy use by over 50% and decrease greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80% per unit, enhancing resident comfort and advancing Canada’s climate goals.