Canadian Energy Minister Tim Hodgson said on Monday the government will fast-track key energy projects and invest in scalable clean technologies as part of a broader push to position Canada as a global energy leader.
Speaking at a press event, Hodgson pledged to “make Canada a true conventional and clean energy superpower,” citing plans to accelerate the review of major infrastructure proposals through the creation of a centralized permitting office.
The planned Major Federal Projects Office will serve as a single point of contact for project approvals, aiming to reduce regulatory complexity by consolidating permitting processes that are currently spread across multiple departments.
“It’s about making ‘One Project, One Review’ real. Less red tape, more certainty, better outcomes,” Hodgson said.
The government intends to identify and prioritize Projects of National Interest, with decisions on such proposals to be issued within two years, according to the minister.
Hodgson also emphasized the need to invest in emerging and scalable energy sources such as hydrogen, geothermal, advanced biofuels, renewables, and nuclear energy.
“These are not speculative bets — they are scalable, exportable solutions with rising global demand that will diversify and strengthen our economy,” he said.
A key part of the strategy includes strengthening interprovincial electricity connections to create a more integrated national grid.
“I believe our future depends on integrated electricity grids,” Hodgson noted. “A pan-Canadian grid means more reliable, affordable, sustainable power for Canadians. It means powering industries from AI to manufacturing. And it means exporting energy between provinces who want Canadian solutions.”
The minister’s remarks signal a shift toward reducing approval timelines and promoting infrastructure that supports both conventional and low-carbon energy sectors.
