Enserva’s Provincial Spotlight Series typically rotates on a bi-monthly basis, highlighting one province at a time to provide timely updates on policy developments, regulatory changes, and industry-specific issues impacting the energy services, supply, and manufacturing sectors. However, with the 45th federal election quickly approaching, this special edition offers insights into federal party platforms and their implications.
ICYMI: The previous issue, published on April 2nd, highlighted Ontario.
REMINDER: Advance polling stations are open from April 18-21, from 9 am to 9 pm. Visit elections.ca to find your polling station.
Political Insights
Following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation earlier this year, Mark Carney was sworn in as Prime Minister on March 14, 2025. A snap federal election was called and is now set for April 28, 2025. The outcome of this election will have far-reaching impacts on Canada’s energy, infrastructure, trade, and workforce development policies. Voting gives Canadians the power to influence how the country is led, and which issues are prioritized. It is essential to consider how government decisions affect our lives. Energy policy is a significant focus, as it directly impacts the cost of living, employment opportunities, and Canada’s innovation landscape.
Platform Comparison: Liberal Party vs. Conservative Party
Source: https://338canada.com
Key Issues to Consider this Federal Election
- Cross-Border Stability: Canada’s economy relies heavily on stable, open trade with the United States. Ongoing tariff disputes and cross-border tensions continue to disrupt supply chains, inflate project costs, and undermine investor confidence. How Canada navigates trade relationships will be critical to sustaining growth across industry.
- Infrastructure and Project Development: Strategic infrastructure — including energy corridors, critical mineral access, and housing — is essential for long-term economic prosperity. Persistent permitting delays, regulatory inconsistencies, and fragmented approval processes continue to slow major projects and delay investment. Accelerating infrastructure development remains a key priority for maintaining competitiveness.
- Energy Security: With global demand for natural resources accelerating, Canada can play a leadership role. Strengthening domestic production, processing capabilities, and export capacity will be essential to meeting growing needs and ensuring Canada’s long-term energy security.
- Skilled Labour: Labour gaps in skilled trades, construction, and energy services impact project delivery and costs. Addressing labour mobility, skills development, immigration pathways, and credential recognition will be critical to ensuring Canada has the workforce required to support major projects and economic growth.
- Regulatory Certainty: Uncertainty around carbon pricing, emissions targets, and permitting processes creates challenges for long-term planning. A stable regulatory environment will be important for building confidence across industry.
Additional Resources
- Enserva’s 2025 Federal Election Toolkit
- Energy on the ballot: The key to Canadian prosperity | Financial Post
The Bottom Line
The upcoming federal election on April 28, 2025, comes at an important time for Canada. As Canadians prepare to head to the polls, understanding how party platforms address today’s critical challenges is more important than ever. Enserva remains committed to advancing the conversation on energy issues, and we encourage you to make your voice heard and “Put Energy on the Ballot.”
