Two out of three Quebecers concerned about electricity shortages

A new survey suggests that most Quebecers are worried about electricity rates and shortages, according to data by the Synopsis Research Marketing Institute.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) shared the results on Tuesday, and 67 per cent of the population are worried about energy insecurity,

Among the 1,000 respondents, 39 per cent think that Quebec’s energy is in a surplus, 17 per cent believe that there is a deficit and 22 per cent don’t know.

The survey results also confirmed that Quebecers believe that the energy issue is complex, but that information provided by Hydro-Québec, who’ve said that the energy has gone from a surplus to a deficit, has not been effectively communicated to the population.

According to the data, Quebecers are also concerned about the impact of Hydro-Québec’s large investments to fix the energy deficit and to decarbonize the economy.

“Quebec is on the verge of running out of energy,” said François Vincent, CFIB Vice-President for Quebec. “This is a major concern for SMEs across Quebec. An energy deficit means higher prices. Quebec SMEs should not have to pay the costs.”

Quebec has said that they would limit the rate increases to 3 per cent for citizens, but the survey shows that 75 per cent of respondents think that Hydro-Québec’s major investments will increase the price of residential electricity.

The CFIB said it hopes that this survey will be positively received by the government.

Currently, Quebec SMEs are being held back by cost pressures, reduced demand, and labour shortages. Also, they are concerned about the risk of paying the price for Hydro-Québec’s massive investments.

“We must not hide the fact that the energy transition is desired, but no one wants to foot the bill. Bill 69 includes some of the foundations for a successful reform, but much more needs to be done, including regulating cross-subsidization, accelerating measures to promote energy conservation and ensuring the diversification of energy sources. Currently, the bill falls disproportionately on SMEs. SME managers do not want to continue to pay the price for Hydro-Québec’s energy deficits and huge investments. No one would come out ahead by putting everything on the backs of our small businesses,” concluded Vincent,

1,000 Quebec adults were surveyed from Oct. 24 to 28 through online panels, and the study was conducted online.