Stats Canada says, since COVID-19-related shutdowns imposed in the spring have been gradually lifting, demand for energy products has grown and energy prices have risen. However, overall energy production remained below levels from a year ago. Total electricity generation rose in July while all other energy sectors were down. Crude oil production and exports remain low. Extraction of heavy oil was down 16.6 per cent while light and medium crude oils were down 6.7 per cent year over year, mostly because of reduced production in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

The total demand for natural gas to Canadian consumers fell 4.3 per cent year over year. It was at the lowest level for July since the series began in 2016. However, consumer demand in Saskatchewan and British Columbia in the residential sector was mostly responsible increased deliveries 0.5 per cent.