“We must not hide: the energy transition is desired, but no one wants to pay the bill,” said the Quebec spokesperson for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.
Posted at 12:37 p.m.
François Vincent’s comment follows the publication of a survey by his organization indicating that two-thirds of Quebecers fear running out of electricity and seeing rates increase.
This survey conducted among 1,000 respondents within the population by the firm Synopsis also indicates that many Quebecers do not understand how Quebec went from electricity surpluses to a deficit. More precisely, 39% of those questioned believe that Quebec is still in a situation of electricity surplus and 22% do not know what it is.
This is a sign that the information communicated by Hydro-Québec did not reach the population, believes the CFIB. Among those who are concerned about the energy deficit, three-quarters are worried about the major investors announced by Hydro-Québec because they will increase the cost of electricity.
Even with the repeated outings of the Premier of Quebec on limiting the rate increase for citizens to 3%, the survey shows that 75% of them think that Hydro-Québec’s major investments will increase the price of residential electricity.
Canadian Federation of Independent Business
For SMEs, which do not have this assurance that the increase in electricity prices will be limited to 3%, the energy deficit is a significant concern, says François Vincent. “Whoever says energy deficit means rising prices. SMEs do not have to pay the costs.”
The CFIB is concerned about the impact that Bill 69 will have on the energy transition currently under review in Quebec. “Bill 69 includes certain bases for a successful reform, but much more must be done,” according to its spokesperson.
“Currently, the bill falls disproportionately on the shoulders of SMEs. SME managers do not want to continue to pay the price for energy deficits and huge investments by Hydro-Québec.”
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