Skepticism and Environmental Concerns Amidst Energy Diversification Push

Chrystia Freeland's LNG Proposal Draws Skepticism

Chrystia Freeland, a candidate for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada, has proposed exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) to allies. However, her proposal has been met with skepticism from those who say her government has neglected the sector over the past decade.

Freeland's policy statement on jobs and growth, released on February 5, includes a pledge to "seize the opportunity to make Canada an energy superpower, from powering our grids with hydro to exporting liquefied natural gas to our allies." This proposal is part of a package of measures designed to diversify Canada's exports in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to impose steep tariffs.

Critics, even those who agree with the idea of exporting LNG, find Freeland's proposal difficult to accept. They point to the Trudeau government's record of limiting energy exports, including shelving the Northern Gateway pipeline project in 2016 and passing Bill C-48 in 2019, which prohibited tankers off the northwest coast of British Columbia.

Freeland's campaign has cited the Liberal government's purchase of the Trans Mountain pipeline project as evidence of their support for the energy sector. However, some critics remain skeptical, questioning whether Freeland has the credibility to deliver on her promises.

Others, such as UBC politics professor Kathryn Harrison, argue that Freeland's proposal is consistent with the Trudeau government's track record of approving new LNG terminals. However, she also raises concerns about the environmental and economic implications of expanding LNG exports, citing the long time it takes to receive permits and build LNG facilities, as well as reports suggesting global demand for LNG may peak around 2030.

Environmental groups remain opposed to LNG exports, arguing that they would only benefit wealthy Canadians who invest in the fossil fuel industry. They urge Canada's next prime minister to focus on solutions that bring economic relief and certainty without jeopardizing climate security.