The Stats Are In: Wildfires Are Increasing Power Outages Across Canada — Here’s What You Can Do

Canada is seeing more wildfires than ever before—both in number and scale. But what many Canadians may not realize is how directly these fires are affecting power infrastructure. From burned transmission lines to preventative grid shutdowns, the result is the same: more frequent, longer-lasting outages.

Canada is seeing more wildfires than ever before—both in number and scale. But what many Canadians may not realize is how directly these fires are affecting power infrastructure. From burned transmission lines to preventative grid shutdowns, the result is the same: more frequent, longer-lasting outages.

If you rely on the grid for everything—from lighting and heating, to your fridge, computers, wifi, garage door and TV, and for your EV charging—these numbers will convince you it’s time to take control with your own backup power.

🔥 The Numbers Behind the Crisis

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and size:

  • In 2023, over 18.5 million hectares of land burned in Canada — 7x higher than the national 10-year average.

  • Over 6,500 fires were recorded across the country in that year alone.

  • British Columbia declared a province-wide state of emergency as fires approached key infrastructure.

Power and communication systems are being disrupted:

  • In 2024, wildfires in Yukon damaged two fibre optic cables, cutting off internet and phone service across the territory — affecting hospitals, 911 services, banks, and gas stations.

  • In 2023, 230+ active fires in the Northwest Territories led to evacuation of 20,000 residents, cutting off electricity and internet in several areas.

  • During the 2021 Lytton wildfire, 90% of the village was destroyed, including critical infrastructure: electricity, ambulance, water systems, and communication towers.

This isn’t just a rural issue:

  • In Saskatchewan (May 2023), communities that weren’t even in the path of flames experienced multiple-day power outages due to regional fire risks damaging transmission infrastructure.

  • Power utility companies across Canada have increasingly begun implementing preventative grid shutoffs to reduce wildfire ignition risks — especially during dry, windy conditions.

⚡ What This Means for Your Home

A growing number of Canadians are electrifying their homes — installing EV chargers, switching to heat pumps, and adopting smart systems. But with more reliance comes more risk: a single grid outage can knock your home offline for hours or days.

With a smart whole-home battery backup system, your essentials stay powered — lights, fridge, phones, and more — even when the grid goes down.

This isn't about fear. It's about being prepared for a new reality.

🏠 Implications for Homeowners

Given the documented impact of wildfires on power infrastructure, homeowners, especially in wildfire-prone areas, should consider:​

  • Investing in Backup Power Solutions: Installing a dependable battery storage system can provide critical power during outages.​

  • Enhancing Home Resilience: Implementing fire-resistant building materials and creating defensible space around properties can reduce wildfire risk.​

  • Staying Informed: Keeping abreast of local emergency services and evacuation plans ensures preparedness during wildfire events.​

By taking these steps, homeowners can mitigate the risks associated with power outages caused by wildfires, gain energy independence and peace of mind.

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