Canada’s Energy Minister Tim Hodgson has pledged to speed up energy project approvals and position the country as a global leader in both conventional and clean energy. Speaking at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, Hodgson acknowledged rising global instability and the impact of U.S. trade policies under President Trump, vowing that Canada will “win” the trade war it didn’t start.
“We’re no longer going to be defined by delays — we’ll be defined by delivery,” he said, announcing that major national energy projects will now be approved within two years instead of five.
The goal: reduce red tape, boost investor confidence, and focus on trade with countries that share Canadian values.
Hodgson’s visit to Calgary just 10 days into his tenure as minister has been welcomed by the energy industry. Ruhee Ismail-Teja of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce said the sector is optimistic about Hodgson’s early engagement and efforts to address long-standing investment barriers, especially those linked to federal policy and strained Canada-U.S. trade relations.