Canadians Want Lower Energy Bills, but Safety Drives Home Electrical Upgrades, Schneider Electric Survey Finds

As homes add technologies like EV chargers, heat pumps and battery storage, homeowners are increasingly focused on ensuring their electrical systems can support growing energy demands safely and reliably.

MILTON, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schneider Electric Canada, a global energy technology leader, today released new research revealing that while Canadian homeowners are focused on lowering energy costs and improving efficiency, safety is the leading reason they choose to upgrade their home's electrical system.

The survey, conducted by Angus Reid Group among 1,007 Canadian homeowners, found that 44 per cent of homeowners planning an electrical system upgrade within the next two years cite safety concerns as a key reason for doing so.

The findings come as Canadian homes take on greater electrical demands from technologies such as EV chargers, heat pumps, solar power, battery storage and smart home energy management systems. As homeowners look to adopt these technologies and reduce long-term energy costs, many are starting with a more fundamental question: “Is my home electrical system ready?”

While safety was identified as the primary driver of electrical upgrades, affordability and efficiency remain top priorities. More than half (52 per cent) of homeowners say long-term energy savings matter more than upfront cost when purchasing home improvement products, while energy efficiency (65 per cent) and lower operating costs (62 per cent) are among the most influential factors in their purchasing decisions.

“Canadians place a high value on energy savings and efficiency, but this research shows that safety is ultimately what motivates many homeowners to act,” said David O'Reilly, Vice President, Home & Commercial Solutions at Schneider Electric Canada. “As household energy needs continue to evolve, homeowners want confidence that their electrical system can safely support those changes.”

Survey Highlights

• 44 per cent of homeowners planning an electrical system upgrade cite safety concerns as the main driver.
• Safety is the number one reason Canadians upgrade their home's electrical system, ahead of energy savings and other benefits.
• 52 per cent say long-term energy savings matter more than upfront cost when purchasing home improvement products.
• 65 per cent say rebates, tax credits or other incentives would make them more likely to undertake energy-efficient electrical upgrades.
• One in 10 homeowners are considering an electrification-related investment, including electrical, solar, battery or EV charging projects, within the next two years.

As Canadians continue to explore technologies that can improve comfort, efficiency and resilience, the survey findings suggest homeowners are taking a practical approach by ensuring their electrical systems are ready to support future needs.

“The future of home energy is increasingly electric,” said O'Reilly. “While homeowners continue to prioritize energy savings, they also want confidence that their homes can safely support evolving energy needs. Connected energy management solutions can provide real-time insights and greater control, helping homeowners understand how energy is being used and make more informed decisions.”

Schneider Electric offers a portfolio of home energy management, electrical distribution, smart home and EV charging solutions that help homeowners better manage energy, support evolving household needs and create safer, more efficient homes.

About This Survey

These are the findings of a survey conducted by Schneider Electric Canada from May 20 to May 26, 2026, among a sample of 1,007 Canadian homeowners who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The survey was conducted online in English and French. Data were weighted according to Statistics Canada's 2021 Census by age, gender and region. For comparison purposes only, a probability sample of this size would carry a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

About the Angus Reid Forum

The Angus Reid Forum is Canada's most well-known and trusted online public opinion community, consisting of engaged residents across the country who participate in surveys on the issues and topics that matter most to Canadians.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industries, businesses, and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centres, factories, infrastructure, and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability. The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory. With 160,000 employees and 1 million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world's most sustainable companies. www.se.com/ca.