It is the title of a lengthy and comprehensive report from the C.D. Howe Institute, written by Charles De Land and Cole Diepold, that examines what historical cost trends reveal about meeting growing electricity demand.

The authors examined electricity prices and system costs across Canadian provinces between 2018 and 2023.  They found that provinces are entering the future from very different starting points. Hydro-rich provinces have generally benefited from lower electricity costs, while others are already facing pressures from fuel price volatility, shifting generation sources, infrastructure renewal needs and evolving market structures.

The report found that most provinces experienced stable electrical system costs in real terms between 2018 and 2023. Diepold says Saskatchewan fared well comparatively.

Diepold warns the future economy will require more electricity for a growing population, new industries and emerging technology, such as artificial intelligence.

The entire report can be viewed here.