The Quebec Auditor General released a report on June 10, 2026 that sharply criticized the provincial government's handling of the battery sector, describing the approach as insufficiently planned despite the presence of significant safety and environmental risks.
The audit found that the province has not established a systematic planning framework for the development and deployment of battery technologies, leaving key decisions to be made without a coordinated strategy. This lack of structure, the report said, hampers the ability to manage the rapid growth of the industry effectively.
Officials were also warned that the sector carries inherent safety concerns, such as fire hazards and chemical exposure, as well as broader environmental impacts linked to resource extraction and end‑of‑life disposal. The auditor highlighted that without clear planning, these risks could be amplified and harder to mitigate.
The findings are part of the Auditor General’s broader mandate to oversee emerging technology sectors in Quebec, a role that includes evaluating how public policy aligns with industry evolution. Battery technology, identified as a priority for economic diversification and clean‑energy transition, falls under this scrutiny.
The report calls on the Government of Quebec to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses safety protocols, environmental safeguards, and coordinated investment strategies. It urges the creation of clear guidelines and oversight mechanisms to ensure that the expansion of battery production and use proceeds in a controlled and responsible manner.
In response, the provincial ministry responsible for innovation has indicated that it will review the auditor’s recommendations and work with industry stakeholders to draft a roadmap. The ministry emphasized its commitment to aligning the battery sector with Quebec’s climate goals while protecting public health and the environment.