Attitudes towards Grid Modernization and Retrofits

Changes to the climate and energy consumption put increasing demand on the electrical grid. Both 2023 and 2024 were the hottest years on record in Canada, requiring more electricity to cool buildings, and electric vehicle charging uses more energy than most other household activities. These increasing demands require grid modernization, in which the electricity system is transformed while maintaining reliability. Grid modernization includes adding renewable energy and storage, either to homes and buildings or to energy infrastructure itself. The level of knowledge and support for grid modernization and related energy efficiency retrofits, however, was not established among Canadians, which prompted Impact Canada to conduct a survey on the topic.

In 2024, a total of 2,524 Canadians participated through a nationally representative online panel. Most respondents reported little knowledge of grid modernization, with 37% rating themselves as at least moderately knowledgeable. They showed similarly low knowledge of energy regulators, which are organizations that help ensure energy utilities meet their objectives. Respondents generally supported energy innovation and grid investments to reduce emissions. Around half (56%) of respondents were additionally willing to transition their home to become net zero, meaning that it would produce as much energy as it consumes. Upfront costs were the largest barrier, reported by half (49%) of respondents.

Overall, these results will help inform policy support for the various changes required to build a more reliable and sustainable energy system.

For further information on our research contact iiu-uii@pco-bcp.gc.ca.