Natural Resources

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss energy and natural resources, focusing on the main estimates for 2026-27 and the management of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson, presented the government's plans for energy security, economic growth, and diversification of energy exports. He highlighted investments in critical minerals, renewable energy, and the forest sector. Committee members questioned the Minister and other officials from Natural Resources Canada, the Canada Energy Regulator, and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. Shannon Stubbs (Conservative) questioned the Minister about the construction of a pipeline to the Pacific, pressing for specific dates and criticizing the government's approach to energy projects. She also raised concerns about foreign control of Canadian resources, particularly by Chinese state-owned companies. Braedon Clark (Liberal) focused on regulatory certainty and the importance of cooperation agreements with provinces and territories to streamline project reviews. He also inquired about investments in electricity and energy storage. Mario Simard (Bloc Québécois) questioned the cost-effectiveness of a pipeline to the west coast and the potential for federal investment in such infrastructure. He expressed concerns about repeating the experience of the Trans Mountain pipeline. Corey Tochor (Conservative) questioned the Minister about the role of the Prime Minister's advisor in nuclear policy and the decision to contract with U.S. companies for the management of Canadian nuclear laboratories. The committee also discussed wildfire management and the forest sector, with members inquiring about strategies to ensure the sustainability of forest resources and the impact of forest fires on carbon sequestration. The committee passed a motion requiring regular updates from the Department of Natural Resources, the Canada Energy Regulator, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, and the Northern Pipeline Agency on the implementation of their departmental plans. Another motion was passed to undertake an in-depth study on Canada's electrification, energy self-sufficiency, and domestic energy security.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports. The first panel focused on the role of Export Development Canada (EDC) and LNG Canada in the energy sector. Alison Nankivell from EDC highlighted their support for both conventional and clean energy projects, noting a recent increase in financing for the oil and gas sector. Chris Cooper from LNG Canada emphasized the importance of Canadian LNG in global energy security and the need for policy certainty and efficient regulations to attract investment. Committee members questioned the witnesses on topics such as national security reviews, the impact of regulations on LNG project approvals, and the balance between supporting conventional and clean energy projects. The second panel featured representatives from Advanced Biofuels Canada, the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA), and FPInnovations. Fred Ghatala from Advanced Biofuels Canada discussed the role of biofuels in enhancing energy security and reducing pollution. Imran Noorani from CanREA highlighted the growth of renewable energy in Canada and its potential for export. Stéphane Renou from FPInnovations focused on the potential of forest residue as an energy source. Committee members asked about the availability of raw materials for biofuel production, the role of government in supporting the forestry sector, and the potential for renewable energy to complement or substitute for hydrocarbons. The committee agreed to invite the co-chairs of the Canadian Forest Sector Transformation Task Force to a future meeting to discuss their report on the forestry industry. The committee also discussed the schedule for upcoming meetings, including a session with Minister Hodgson to discuss the main estimates, supplementary estimates, and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports and opportunities. The first panel focused on oil and gas, with Rory Johnston from Commodity Context Corporation and Peter Tertzakian from Studio.Energy discussing Canada's dependence on the U.S. market and the need for export diversification. Johnston highlighted the risks of relying solely on the U.S. and suggested public investment in west coast export infrastructure. Tertzakian emphasized the importance of new customers and infrastructure to boost exports and GDP, while also pointing out regulatory barriers. Committee members discussed the need for regulatory clarity and competitiveness with the U.S., as well as the potential for public capital investment. The second panel shifted to renewable energy, featuring David Billedeau from the Canadian Hydrogen Association and Serge Abergel and David Laureti from Hydro-Québec. Billedeau spoke about the emerging global hydrogen market and the importance of optimizing the clean hydrogen investment tax credit. He also highlighted export opportunities in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Abergel discussed Hydro-Québec's renewable energy exports to the U.S. and the importance of tariff-free trade. Committee members explored the potential impacts of tariffs on electricity exports, Hydro-Québec's capacity to meet growing demand, and the role of federal support for clean energy projects. Committee members discussed the potential impacts of tariffs on electricity exports, Hydro-Québec's capacity to meet growing demand, and the role of federal support for clean energy projects. The committee agreed to continue the study at the next meeting.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports. The committee heard from Gurpreet Lail, president and CEO of Enserva, and Stephen Buffalo, president and CEO of the Indian Resource Council. Lail emphasized the importance of the energy services sector to Canada's economy and energy security, arguing that current policies hinder investment and export growth. She called for shorter timelines for energy infrastructure projects, removal of barriers to export growth like the tanker moratorium, and reform of industrial carbon policy. Buffalo highlighted the role of First Nations in energy development, noting the success of equity partnerships in pipeline projects. He stressed the importance of building relationships and trust with Indigenous communities for new projects. Buffalo suggested that involving First Nations in the development and operation of pipelines is key to gaining their support. He also pointed to the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation as a positive model. During questioning, committee members discussed the potential of LNG exports, the impact of policies like Bill C-69 and the tanker ban, and the role of government in supporting energy infrastructure. There was also discussion of the Energy East pipeline project and whether it would have strengthened Canadian sovereignty. The committee also heard from officials from the Canada Energy Regulator and Natural Resources Canada, who provided information on energy exports, infrastructure, and government policies. The committee discussed a national electricity strategy and opportunities for indigenous equity ownership in energy projects. They also discussed the impact of oil production on pump prices.

The House of Commons Natural Resources Committee met to discuss Canada's energy exports. The first speaker was Natan Obed, president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, who spoke about the importance of including Inuit communities in discussions about energy projects, as they own or co-manage a large portion of Canada's land and coastline. He emphasized the need to respect modern treaties and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples when developing energy projects that may impact Inuit lands, waters, and ice. He also highlighted the infrastructure deficits in Inuit Nunangat and the need for investments in infrastructure and Arctic security. He noted that Inuit communities are not connected to the North American power grid, leading to high energy costs and a lower quality of life. He suggested prioritizing grid expansion into the north and localized off-grid energy systems. Committee members discussed how to reconcile the desire to increase energy exports with the need to reduce diesel dependency in Inuit communities. They also discussed the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program and the need for greater outreach and consideration for how Indigenous peoples can access these funds. The committee then heard from Marie-Christine Doran, a professor at the University of Ottawa, who discussed trade opportunities for Canada in Latin America. She highlighted Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay as reliable partners committed to multilateralism and the rule of law. She cautioned against trading with countries that are weakening the rule of law and regulatory frameworks, such as Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, and Bolivia. She recommended that Canada focus its natural resource export efforts on its reliable partners and join multilateral alliances that favor middle powers. George Christidis, president and CEO of the Canadian Nuclear Association, spoke about the importance of the nuclear sector to Canada's energy system, economic competitiveness, energy security, and environmental objectives. He emphasized the need for a coordinated strategic approach to support Canadian nuclear exports, including government-to-government relationships, strategic financial support, and continued domestic development. He also noted that the domestic regulatory environment needs to be more efficient to accelerate the development and deployment of nuclear technologies. Brendan O'Connell, vice-president of Hydrogen Canada Corp., discussed the company's plans to build a blue ammonia and hydrogen facility in western Canada for export to Asia. He highlighted the importance of carbon pricing and investment tax credits to the project's economics and the need for federal and provincial policy alignment.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports, with a focus on First Nations' involvement and benefits. National Chief Cindy Woodhouse-Nepinak of the Assembly of First Nations spoke about the importance of partnership with First Nations in energy projects, emphasizing their rights and the need for their consent. She highlighted the potential economic benefits of projects on First Nations lands but stressed the importance of respecting treaties and addressing infrastructure gaps. Other speakers included Benjamin Green-Stacey, Director of Economic Development, and Dr. Graeme Reed, Strategic Advisor, both from the Assembly of First Nations, who provided further details on economic development and consultation issues. Committee members raised questions about consultation processes, the duty of the federal government to consult with First Nations, and the effectiveness of current funding programs. They discussed the need for capacity building within First Nations communities to enable their participation in major projects. The National Chief emphasized the importance of including First Nations in discussions and ensuring they benefit from resource development on their lands. She also mentioned the need to address historical injustices and ensure First Nations are treated fairly in economic partnerships. The committee also discussed inviting Gregory Ebel, President and CEO of Enbridge, to a future meeting to discuss energy exports. A motion was put forward to invite Mr. Ebel to discuss the company's perspective on building pipelines in Canada, particularly regarding regulatory challenges. This motion was amended to allow Mr. Ebel to bring support staff from his company. The committee agreed to invite Mr. Ebel to a future meeting. Finally, a motion was introduced to hold additional meetings regarding Canadian Natural Resources Limited's decision to defer an $8.25 billion mine expansion. The motion proposed inviting several witnesses, including representatives from Canadian Natural Resources Limited, government ministers, and industry experts. However, a motion to adjourn the debate on this topic was passed, so this will be discussed at a later date.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports. The committee heard from representatives from the Canadian Association of Energy Contractors, Canada's Building Trades Unions, and Svante Technologies Inc. These speakers discussed the importance of energy exports for the Canadian economy, job creation, and Canada's role as a global energy leader. They also talked about the need for infrastructure development, competitive policies, and innovation in the energy sector. Mark Scholz from the Canadian Association of Energy Contractors emphasized the role of drilling and service rig companies in creating jobs and supporting communities. He called for policies that would encourage investment and streamline regulations. Sean Strickland from Canada's Building Trades Unions highlighted the importance of major energy infrastructure projects for creating opportunities for skilled workers and apprentices. He advocated for fair wages, apprenticeship requirements, and local hiring obligations on projects that receive government investment. Brett Henkel from Svante Technologies discussed the potential for Canada to become a leader in carbon management. He called for policies that would support the development of carbon capture and storage technologies. Committee members questioned the witnesses on a range of issues, including regulatory barriers, the role of public funding, and the need for indigenous participation in energy projects. The committee also heard from Victoria Pruden, president of the Métis National Council, who spoke about the importance of Métis participation in the energy sector and the need for distinctions-based funding to support equitable access to opportunities. The committee discussed the importance of balancing energy exports with environmental considerations and the need to ensure that indigenous communities benefit from energy development. They also talked about the potential for Canada to become a leader in both conventional and clean energy. The committee agreed to consider the witnesses' testimony as it continues its study of Canadian energy exports. The committee will also receive additional documentation from the Métis National Council for analysis.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss proposed changes to a proposed law about implementing the budget. Specifically, they talked about clauses that would extend the length of licenses for exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) from 40 to 50 years. The goal is to attract investment and help Canada become a major energy supplier. The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson, explained that these changes would make Canada more competitive in the global LNG market. He said that longer licenses would give project owners more time to earn back their investments, especially in projects that reduce emissions. Some committee members, like Shannon Stubbs, were concerned about the slow pace of project approvals and wanted to ensure that projects are developed in partnership with Indigenous communities. The committee also heard from Tracy Sletto, the head of the Canada Energy Regulator, and Erin O'Brien from the Department of Natural Resources. They explained how the proposed changes would affect their work and how Canada's LNG sector can help the country meet its economic and environmental goals. Some committee members raised concerns about how increasing LNG exports could impact Canada's commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Ultimately, the committee agreed to send a letter back to the finance committee indicating they discussed the proposed law and did not propose any amendments. They also planned to review a draft report on critical minerals at their next meeting.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canadian energy exports. The first panel focused on nuclear energy and energy storage. David Novog from McMaster University spoke about the need for workforce development in the nuclear sector to meet growing demands. Andrew Thiele from Energy Storage Canada emphasized the importance of energy storage for Canada's electricity future and industrial opportunities, suggesting pragmatic federal policies and provincial planning. Committee members discussed topics such as lithium battery production, tax credits for clean electricity, and the role of energy storage in supporting renewable energy and interties. The second panel shifted to the Impact Assessment Act and the oil and gas sector. Adam Legge from the Business Council of Alberta argued for a comprehensive legislative overhaul of the Impact Assessment Act to enable efficient project approvals. Eric Nuttall from Ninepoint Partners stressed the importance of increasing Canadian energy exports, highlighting a looming global supply crisis and the economic benefits of the oil and gas sector. Committee members debated issues such as the economic impact of oil and gas, the role of government regulations, and the need for pipeline infrastructure. During the meeting, a motion was introduced and amended regarding Jackson Wijaya, owner of Asia Pulp and Paper and sole shareholder of Domtar. The motion, as amended, invites Wijaya to testify before the committee regarding the impact of mill closures on employees and the company's intentions for other facilities in Quebec and Canada. The testimony will be included in the committee's report on the forestry sector study. Key recommendations included optimizing investment tax credits for energy storage, expanding deployment programs, and pairing restrictions with industrial policy to build domestic supply chains. There was also discussion on the need for cultural change within the public service to view project approvals through an economic and prosperity lens. The committee acknowledged the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental and social considerations.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canada's energy exports. The committee heard from Lisa Baiton, president of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP), Catherine Swift, president of the Coalition of Concerned Manufacturers and Businesses of Canada, and Francis Bradley, president of Electricity Canada. Baiton argued that expanding Canadian oil and gas exports is important for strengthening the economy and national sovereignty. She said that Canada should aim to be a global energy superpower, but current policies are making it difficult to attract investment and compete with other countries. She expressed concern about proposed changes to methane regulations and industrial carbon pricing, which she believes will increase costs for Canadian producers. Swift stated that the manufacturing and energy sectors are closely linked, and that policies that harm the energy sector also hurt manufacturing. She criticized green policies that increase electricity costs and make Canadian businesses less competitive. She also expressed concern about Canada's relationship with China and its impact on the manufacturing sector. Bradley highlighted the role of electricity in enabling energy exports and emphasized the need to modernize regulations and mobilize capital to build more electricity infrastructure. He also discussed the importance of interconnections between provinces and with the United States. Committee members questioned the witnesses about various issues, including the impact of clean electricity regulations, the role of government in supporting energy projects, and the challenges of building new infrastructure. There were no specific decisions made during the meeting, but the committee members indicated that they would continue to study the issue of Canadian energy exports.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss Canada's energy exports. The committee heard from Normand Mousseau, a professor at the Université de Montréal, and Pierre-Olivier Pineau, a professor at HEC Montréal, about Canada's position as an energy exporter. Mousseau argued that despite being a major energy producer, Canada isn't an energy superpower because it lacks influence on global prices and lags in adopting modern renewable energy technologies. Pineau highlighted that Canada's energy exports are largely dominated by crude oil and that the country's economy, particularly Alberta's, is vulnerable to fluctuating oil prices. He recommended focusing on energy productivity and developing sustainable markets beyond hydrocarbons. Both agreed Canada is not an energy superpower.

The Canadian parliamentary committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the management of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) by U.S. companies. The committee heard from Ole Hendrickson, President of the Ottawa River Institute, and Christian Leuprecht, a professor at the Royal Military College of Canada and Queen's University, in the first panel. Hendrickson raised concerns about the government-owned, contractor-operated (GOCO) model, stating it creates risks like increased costs and poor waste disposal, especially with U.S. corporations involved. Leuprecht questioned the lack of competition in awarding the CNL contract to a U.S.-led group, highlighting potential issues with value for money, Canadian sovereignty, national security, and accountability. He suggested an independent review of the contract and a possible return to a Crown corporation model for CNL. During the second panel, Stephen Aplin, appearing as an individual, expressed strong concerns about handing control of Canada's nuclear research to U.S. companies, especially given geopolitical tensions and potential conflicts of interest. Eric McGoey, Vice-President of Corporate Affairs at CNL, defended the GOCO model, emphasizing that AECL retains ownership of assets and intellectual property, and CNL operates under Canadian laws. He also highlighted the Canadian presence and expertise within the companies involved in the consortium. Committee members questioned the witnesses on various aspects of the contract, including potential conflicts of interest, the impact on Canadian jobs and research, and the protection of intellectual property. Concerns were raised about the influence of U.S. interests on CNL's priorities and the potential for American executives to prioritize U.S. interests over Canadian ones. Some committee members expressed skepticism about the transparency and accountability of the contract awarding process. The committee discussed the need for greater oversight of AECL and CNL, the suitability of the GOCO model, and the implications of relying on U.S. companies for managing Canada's nuclear facilities. There was a call for a third-party assessment of the costs and benefits of the current arrangement. A committee member requested that Mr. McGoey provide a written response to claims made by previous witnesses. The committee will move forward with writing a report with recommendations, potentially including a review of the contract and the GOCO model. The committee acknowledged the need to balance economic considerations with national security and sovereignty concerns in the management of Canada's nuclear assets.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Natural Resources met to discuss the management of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) by U.S. companies. Fred Dermarkar, President and CEO of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), explained that AECL owns the sites and assets, while a private sector organization (currently Nuclear Laboratory Partners of Canada, or NLPC) manages the day-to-day operations. He emphasized that AECL is ultimately responsible and that the vast majority of expenses are within Canada, buying expertise in managing complex nuclear sites. He also stated that the procurement process was fair, open, and transparent. Committee member Corey Tochor (Conservative) raised concerns about a potential "all-American takeover" of CNL and the risk to Canada's supply of medical isotopes. He questioned the fairness of the bidding process and whether the government had influenced the contract award. Dermarkar responded that the Competition Bureau had issued a “no-action” letter, indicating it had no intent to take further action at this time, and that strict conflict-of-interest rules are in place. Other committee members, including John-Paul Danko (Liberal), focused on the benefits of the contract, the expertise gained from U.S. companies, and the independence of AECL in awarding the contract. Patrick Bonin (Bloc Québécois) questioned the notification process for municipalities along the route used to ship spent fuel from Gentilly-1 to Chalk River. Cheryl Gallant (Conservative) raised concerns about protecting Canadian intellectual property and ensuring no conflicts of interest exist within the consortium. Maude-Émilie Pagé, acting vice-president, indigenous and stakeholder relations at AECL, addressed questions about informing municipalities of shipments and clarified that Canadian policy prohibits importing foreign radioactive waste. The committee also discussed the decommissioning of Gentilly-1 and the safety standards for waste disposal. Ultimately, a motion was made by Mario Simard (Bloc Québécois) to adjourn the meeting, which was passed with a vote of 5 to 4. This cut the meeting short, despite some committee members' objections.