In a significant shift in energy policy, Quebec is now open to revisiting previously rejected liquefied natural gas (LNG) and oil projects, a move largely influenced by recent US policies and threats.
This change in stance comes as a surprise, given Quebec’s historical resistance to new oil and gas pipelines.
Quebec Environment Minister Benoit Charette has indicated a willingness to reconsider two major energy infrastructure projects: TC Energy’s Energy East pipeline and the GNL Quebec LNG project.
Both projects were previously rejected due to environmental concerns.
Charette stated: “If we address these concerns today, these are projects that could be accepted.”
The political landscape in Canada has been significantly impacted by US President Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on Canadian goods.
Additionally, Trump’s suggestion that Canada should become a US state has been widely rejected by Canadians.
Quebec Foreign Minister Melanie Joly emphasised the need to balance environmental objectives with changing political dynamics, saying: “It is a question people have to ask themselves here.”
She further questioned: “Does what happened in the last few days change the game?”
While reconsidering these energy projects, Canada remains committed to its environmental goals.
The country has announced draft regulations to cap greenhouse gas emissions from the oil and gas sector, aiming for a 35 per cent reduction from 2019 levels by 2030.
This is part of Canada’s broader strategy to combat climate change while supporting the growth of the oil and gas industry.
The proposed cap-and-trade system aims to reward companies that excel in reducing emissions and encourages higher-polluting companies to invest in cleaner production processes.
As tensions between the US and Canada continue to evolve, Quebec’s reconsideration of these energy projects highlights the complex interplay between international relations, economic interests, and environmental concerns in shaping energy policy.