Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, speaking at an oil refinery in Terrace, B.C., emphasized the need for energy independence, citing over-reliance on the U.S. for oil exports and vulnerability to U.S. policy changes, particularly under Donald Trump. He promised to fast-track 10 major energy projects and streamline regulatory approvals.

Liberal Leader Mark Carney also highlighted energy as a key campaign issue, advocating for an energy corridor and improved approval processes for big projects. He stressed the importance of using Canadian oil to fund environmental and social programs.

Both leaders support expanding Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) exports, seen as a cleaner fossil fuel. However, experts warn that Canada is late to the global LNG market, raising concerns about the profitability and environmental impact of new projects.

Canada currently doesn’t export LNG overseas, but the first shipments are expected from northern B.C. later this year.