Kanoke46 / Depositphotos.com
OTTAWA — New data from Statistics Canada shows Canada’s energy sector posted broad-based growth this spring, led by record crude oil production and stronger oil sands output as global demand and higher prices supported increased production.
Statistics Canada says primary energy production rose 2.7 per cent compared with May 2025, with gains in five of six major energy sectors.
Crude oil production climbed nine per cent to 25.8 million cubic metres, the highest volume recorded for the month of May since comparable records began in 2016.
Oil sands operations led the increase, with extraction rising 12.4 per cent to 16.4 million cubic metres. Production of synthetic crude oil jumped 31.8 per cent as most upgraders avoided the spring maintenance shutdowns typically seen at this time of year. Crude bitumen production also increased 3.5 per cent.
Conventional oil production outside the oil sands rose 5.1 per cent, driven largely by higher offshore production in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Statistics Canada attributed the stronger crude oil production in part to continued supply constraints in the Middle East, which helped keep global oil demand and prices elevated.
Natural gas production also reached a record for the month of May, increasing two per cent to 708.8 million gigajoules. British Columbia posted a 9.2 per cent increase as demand for overseas liquefied natural gas exports grew, while Alberta production slipped two per cent because of planned maintenance at some facilities.
Natural gas exports increased eight per cent overall. Shipments to the United States declined 9.3 per cent, while exports of liquefied natural gas to Asian markets totalled 47.5 million gigajoules.
Electricity generation increased 5.5 per cent to 49 million megawatt-hours, led by an 11 per cent increase in hydroelectric output as improved water conditions boosted production following several years of drought. Electricity exports to the United States rose 70.4 per cent, while imports fell 17.2 per cent.
Comments