REACTION: Quebec depriving itself of natural gas when it’s facing an electricity shortage would be a mistake

Montreal, November 18, 2024 – It would be a mistake for the Quebec government to ban natural gas from conventional sources, according to an MEI researcher.

“In case the government has forgotten, Quebec is still facing a lack of electricity, with all the negative effects this has on development,” says Gabriel Giguère, senior policy analyst at the MEI. “In this context, banning a reliable source of energy from new buildings amounts to shooting oneself in the foot.”

This morning, the Quebec government announced a ban on the use of conventional natural gas in residential, commercial, and institutional buildings by 2040, confirming information obtained by La Presse this morning.

The plan is among other things to prohibit the installation of gas heaters in new residential constructions as of 2026.

The MEI points out that as recently as last year, Hydro-Québec was saying that it would have difficulty meeting demand if new buildings could not use natural gas, in particular for heating purposes.

Last week, Hydro-Québec revised its projections upward for electricity demand in 2035, notably asking Quebecers to lower their thermostats during peak winter periods—often severe cold snaps—and to spend money to better insulate their homes.

“Just last week, Hydro-Québec asked Quebecers to heat a little bit less in the winter to avoid power shortages,” adds Mr. Giguère. “This should have sent a clear message to the government regarding Quebec’s continued need for gas heating.”

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The MEI is an independent public policy think tank with offices in Montreal, Calgary, and Ottawa. Through its publications, media appearances, and advisory services to policymakers, the MEI stimulates public policy debate and reforms based on sound economics and entrepreneurship.

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