IEA Chief Says Canada Has Opportunity to Expand Global Energy Role

Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), said Canada can expand its role as a reliable global oil and gas supplier.

This shift comes as geopolitical instability and shifting technology needs create a critical need for energy security. Canada's reputation for stability may allow it to diversify its export markets beyond its traditional reliance on the U.S.

Birol said Canada enjoys "trust across the world," which positions the nation to meet growing international energy demands. This window of opportunity arises as the world faces a complex transition in power generation and fuel consumption.

Recent data highlights the scale of this growth. Global power consumption grew three percent in 2025 ^[1]. Furthermore, electricity demand grew about 2.3 times faster than total energy demand during that same period ^[1].

These trends are driven by a combination of factors, including the growth of data centers and the adoption of electric vehicles. This surge in demand creates what Birol described as a "rare opening" for Canada to supply more energy to global markets.

However, the energy landscape is shifting rapidly. Solar power overtook all other energy sources for the first time globally in 2025 ^[2]. This transition suggests that while oil and gas demand remains high due to instability, the long-term trajectory of global energy is moving toward renewables.

Canada's current export strategy has historically been focused on the U.S. market. The IEA said that the current global climate allows Canada to leverage its trust to reach a broader array of international partners.