The Energy Squeeze Report
Updated on
New report reveals how rising energy costs are forcing CA households to cut corners this winter, and what’s stopping them from fixing the problem
About the Report
The Energy Squeeze report from HomeStars looks in detail at how Canadian households are feeling about running their homes this winter, the behavioural changes rising costs are causing, and the solutions that are being blocked due to lack of knowledge - and funds.
Based on a survey of 1,000 Canadians, the report offers a startling glimpse into the impact of increased energy prices and the pressure of staying warm this winter. The statistics show how households are struggling to cope with spiralling costs, the sacrifices they are making to cope, and the barriers to home upgrades that could make a difference.
Key insights
Financial stresses: 62% of respondents admit to worrying about money and finances more than ever before - with 61% specifically concerned about the running cost of their homes.
Growing problem: The impact has become so severe that 37% of Canadians are dreading opening their energy bills - and 32% are worried about how they will afford to heat their homes this winter.
Getting into debt: 14% of respondents have turned to credit or borrowed from family or friends to pay an energy bill. This concerning figure rises to 20% among the 18-34 age category. Equally, 20% of parents also reported using a loan or credit card to pay for their energy bills.
Monitoring energy: Nearly three quarters (73%) admitting to watching how much electricity they are using - while nearly two-thirds (59%) are monitoring their gas usage for heating and cooking.
Behavioural change: Over a fifth (21%) stated that they are taking shorter showers, while a third (34%) admit that they plan to only heat the room they are in over winter, as opposed to their whole homes.
Green appetite: 53% of homeowners said that they would like to make sustainable and environmentally friendly improvements to their property.
Paying a premium: 40% state that they would pay a premium for a home that already has renewable energy sources.
Change confusion: More than half (53%) of respondents were confused about what grants and subsidies were available to install sustainable upgrades.
Call for help: 42% of homeowners feel that the government is not providing enough financial support to those who want to make their property more environmentally sustainable and energy efficient.
Why it matters
Canada endures long and very cold winters, and the cost of heating our homes is becoming unmanageable and a cause of significant stress.
These rising concerns are leading to behavioural change across the nation. This caution is motivating millions of households to change their habits to conserve their energy supplies - some of which could lead to dangerous decisions.
Soaring energy costs has got the nation thinking about sustainable solutions which will make a meaningful difference to their bills - but the statistics show that most feel out of control and don’t have the knowledge they need to make the upgrades.
Download the report
Access the full Energy Squeeze Report 2026 for detailed data, charts, and insights into the trends shaping the future of Canadian homes.