August energy data published October 30 show changes in output, gas exports and electricity trade, with results varying considerably across provinces.
Electricity and cross-border trade
Canadian electricity generation climbed 8.5% from a year earlier to 51.6 million megawatt-hours in August 2026, according to Statistics Canada data released October 30. Hydroelectric production increased 15.0%, combustible-fuel generation rose 7.0%, and wind generation was up 1.0%. Exports of electricity to the United States more than doubled to 5.2 million megawatt-hours, while imports dropped 52.1% to 1.2 million. These monthly figures are not adjusted for seasonal patterns.
Hydroelectric recovery differs by province
Manitoba's hydroelectric generation rose 144.5% compared with August 2025 as drought conditions improved, accounting for much of the change in Canada's electricity trade. Hydro output in British Columbia increased 16.5% and in Québec 6.0%. Ontario generated more electricity from combustible fuels, chiefly natural gas, while some nuclear units were offline for maintenance. A national increase in hydroelectricity does not mean every province had a similar mix.
Natural gas exports shift
Marketable natural gas production rose 7.6% year over year to 729.4 million gigajoules. Shipments of LNG to countries other than the United States were up 102.4%, reaching 41.5 million gigajoules, in part because Canada's first LNG export terminal was still ramping up the prior year. Pipeline gas exports to the United States declined 3.9% to 261.9 million gigajoules. Overall natural gas exports rose 3.6% despite that geographic shift.
Oil and refining also rose
Crude oil and equivalent production grew 2.3% to 27.4 million cubic metres. Net production of finished petroleum products reached 10.5 million cubic metres, a 1.3% increase and the highest August figure since the series began in 2019. Diesel-related exports rose amid tight inventories. These measurements record physical quantities, not household fuel bills, profitability or emissions. The statistical agency says revisions may occur as further energy data are received.
Sources & transparency
Statistics Canada, The Daily — Energy statistics, August 2026Original CDN News coverage. Sources are linked for reference.
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