Why LNG might not solve Canada’s long-term energy challenges

The idea of using natural gas as an interim solution to the challenge of meeting present-day demand for energy while reducing carbon emissions has been gaining traction.

The progressive side of Canada’s fossil-fuel energy debate is pushing back against the prospect of relying on natural gas as a path to a carbon-free future.

High prices and a spike in demand, largely the result of Russia’s war in Ukraine, are giving momentum to the idea that liquified natural gas could replace coal-fuelled power around the world.

But critics call it a short-sighted and counterproductive notion that ignores economic and practical realities both in Canada and around the globe.

Nichole Dusyk, a senior policy adviser with the International Institute for Sustainable Development, says renewable energy sources like wind and solar are growing more viable every day.

Dusyk says renewables have the added advantage of not being global commodities subject to the whims of market forces.

It’s no secret Canada can’t properly export its natural gas riches, she adds _ and even if it could fix its capacity challenges, it would be too late to meet current demand.

“High prices are clouding people’s judgment about the long-term economic prospects of natural gas,” Dusyk said in an interview.

“The global outlook for natural gas is going down, not going up.”