Energy of the True North
by Andy Li
A song tracing one Metro Vancouver upbringing from taking clean hydro power for granted to appreciating Canada’s full energy mix.
About this work
Growing up in Metro Vancouver, I was always surrounded by the powerful, clean energy of BC Hydro. It was one of those things I took for granted, an efficient and sustainable energy system that I assumed existed everywhere. As I grew older, with maturity and a growing understanding of energy practices, I began to notice the sharp differences between the energy landscape in British Columbia and that of other countries, or even other provinces within Canada. This contrast amplified my awareness of Canada’s unique and diverse energy identities.
That upbringing, with ever-reliable and affordable hydroelectric power, shaped my vision of energy: clean, sustainable, and abundant, a seemingly limitless resource. But that perception was eventually challenged as I learned more about global energy realities. The environmental struggles and energy crises in many regions highlighted just how fortunate we are to have systems we often overlook.
This realization sparked my research into Canada’s various energy sectors, each with its own identity. I remember reading about Alberta’s oil sands for the first time and learning how they drive not just our national economy, but also contribute globally. The ingenuity required to harness that resource, despite its environmental challenges, impressed me deeply. It became clear how resourcefulness and technological advancement can propel us forward.
As I explored further, I discovered the groundbreaking work in Ontario’s nuclear power sector. The futuristic innovation behind delivering a steady and reliable energy supply helped me understand that our energy future can’t rely on a single resource. It requires a balanced mix, diverse energy sources combined with smart technologies to ensure a secure and resilient path ahead.
This song reflects the journey from childhood unawareness to a deeper appreciation of the intricacies and innovations within Canada’s energy sector. It acknowledges the privilege many of us enjoy, thanks to sustainable leaders like BC Hydro, while calling attention to the vital efforts across the nation, from Alberta’s oil to Ontario’s nuclear advancements. Through this piece, I wanted to illustrate not only the significance of the Canadian energy sector, but also the distinct identities and innovations that make it truly unique.
