The Robertson Lecture presents - Canada in the Age of Electricity

Presented by: Blake Shaffer, Associate Professor of Economics, University of Calgary

This keynote presentation will be followed up by a panel discussion on the Saskatchewan context featuring Dr. Margot Hurlbert, Canada Research Chair in Climate Change, Energy and Sustainability Policy; Professor, JSGS and Dr. Brett Dolter, Associate Professor, Department of Economics, University of Regina

The International Energy Agency has proclaimed that the world is entering the “Age of Electricity,” as power systems decarbonize and countries around the world increase electricity’s share in their economies Canada is in an enviable position, starting from a largely decarbonized electricity system, though with vast differences across provinces. How Canada navigates this transition and electrifies its economy will shape its competitiveness in an electric future. This Robertson lecture will examine the current state of Canada’s electricity systems, highlight the dramatic changes underway globally, and discuss what is required for Canada to continue decarbonizing and electrifying while maintaining affordability and reliability.

About our Keynote Speaker

Blake Shaffer is an associate professor of economics at the University of Calgary and co-director of Canada’s Energy Modelling Hub. Prior to academia, Shaffer had a 15-year career in energy trading, specializing in electricity, natural gas and emissions markets. He holds a PhD in economics from the University of Calgary, Masters in economics from the University of Cambridge and a bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences from Queen’s University.

Event Details

Thursday, February 5, 2026

3:00 – 4:30 pm CST.  Reception to follow.

The 2025-26 Robertson Lecture will be a hybrid event – join us in CB 139, College Building, 2155 College Avenue, University of Regina or via Zoom.

Those interested in attending this free, hybrid lecture must register in advance.  Zoom connection details will be sent by email the day of the event.

Click here to register. 

If you are interested in seeing the recording but are unable to attend the live event, please email jsgs.events@uregina.ca, and do not submit a registration form for this event. 

About the Robertson Lecture

Scientific knowledge, when properly and clearly shared with policymakers and the media, can greatly improve the quality of the human experience. It is critical that the findings scientists make through rigorous discipline and proven protocols are not misinterpreted or misunderstood in order to preserve the integrity of scientific leadership, public policy, and communications work.  The Robertson Lecture is named in honour and remembrance of Dr. Bev Robertson, and is made possible by a generous donation from Dr. Bev Robertson, his wife Elaine, and their family.   For more information on this series, please click here.

Questions? Email us at jsgs.events@uregina.ca.