Research & insights
National research results
Highlights – March 2026
For years, we’ve tracked the growing engagement of Canadian women in the energy space. In 2026, that engagement has evolved. We are seeing a “Super Voter” emerge: women who clearly link energy policy to economic survival. They aren’t just looking for intentions — they’re demanding the decisive action and energy independence required to secure Canadian prosperity.
Energy as our economic engine
Energy isn’t just a sector; it’s our global bargaining chip. Women see a direct line between a thriving energy industry and a stable household budget.
Key insight:
86% believe a strong energy sector is the foundation of Canada’s economic stability.
The proof:
85% agree our natural resources give Canada a position of power in global trade.
While 86% of engaged women believe a strong energy sector is vital for Canada’s economic stability, only 23% have confidence in the country’s ability to actually get large energy projects approved and built.
Unify our home market and diversify globally
To thrive, we must fix our internal “handshakes” while securing our external “handshakes.” This means pipelines from coast to coast, and mending the U.S. trade relationship while reaching new global markets.
Key insight:
85% support breaking down interprovincial barriers to move resources freely.
The proof:
While 84% support building domestic refining capacity, 77% want us to expand infrastructure beyond the U.S. to ensure true energy independence.
The delivery credibility gap
Women are giving “permission” for responsible development, and want a regulatory environment that brings capital investment back to Canada. They want speed, but only if the trade-offs are explained honestly.
70%
support accelerating regulatory processes to attract capital back to Canada.
61%
believe current decision-making delays are making Canada less competitive on the world stage.
Economy is the bottom line
It’s not environment vs. economy. It’s both. However, the financial hardship on the kitchen table is real, and, women are prioritizing the path that keeps Canada affordable.
82%
of women believe environmental policy and economic growth must be developed in tandem, not in isolation.
Only 11%
support prioritizing environmental policy if it comes at the expense of the economy.
Just 38%
support industrial carbon pricing policy.
What does this mean for Canada?
The data is clear: Canadian women are aligned in their views. They support an energy mix that includes oil and gas as a key driver of prosperity, alongside a more streamlined regulatory environment that encourages investment and strengthens Canada making it the best place to work, live, and raise a family.
Methodology
Survey data is from a study conducted via Leger’s online panel (LEO) from February 11 to February 16, 2026. Data was weighted to ensure proper representation of engaged women across Canada, and the survey was offered in both English and French.
Engaged women aged 18 or older are defined as: women who read/listen to local, national, or US news and are familiar with federal, provincial, or municipal politics; and women interested in influencing government, helping with issues facing Canadians, informed about the economy, learning about the future, prosperity, and wanting secure energy resources. Women who are strongly left on the political spectrum have been excluded
