Energy, Affordability, and the Canadian Reality Poll
Survey finds Canadians are engaged and understand the value of energy efficiency but costs and access are holding them back
As affordability pressures continue to shape housing and energy decisions, understanding what motivates Canadians and what prevents action has never been more important.
Findings from a recent national poll by Abacus Data, commissioned by Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) reveal a clear pattern: Canadians value energy efficiency, recognize its benefits, and are actively trying to reduce energy use. Yet affordability barriers, limited control over housing decisions, and upfront costs continue to slow down adoption. The survey shows growing support for solutions, including stronger building standards, government incentives, energy transparency, and more resilient housing.
What Canadians are telling governments about energy, housing, and affordability
- Cost of living dominates decision-making; energy bills are now a core affordability issue
- Canadians value energy efficiency but face structural barriers that limit access and adoption
- Even modest energy savings materially affect household stability
- Governments have a clear mandate to act — with support across parties
Poll explores
- What is driving behaviour and decision-making around energy and housing
- Why affordability not climate is often the strongest motivator for action
- The barriers limiting access to energy-efficient homes and retrofits
- Which technologies and solutions Canadians feel most confident in
- Where public support exists for policy, incentives, and stronger standards
- What growing political will means for the future of housing and building performance
Key findings
- Energy efficiency is widely valued, with strong and growing importance in housing decisions
- The desire to reduce energy costs is clear, but the ability to act is constrained
- The system is limiting adoption, particularly through upfront costs and access barriers
- These pressures are affecting affordability, financial stability, and quality of life
- There is clear public support for government action and system level solutions
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