Motley Fool Premium
  1. Category
    2. /
  2. Investing
    3. /
  3. Energy Stocks
    4. /

Energy Stocks

What are energy stocks? 

Energy stocks represent partial ownership in companies that supply electricity and fuel for the global economy. The energy sector in Canada is vast, comprising a large portion of the TSX. Energy stocks include: 

  • Liquefied natural gas companies
  • Natural gas companies 
  • Oil companies 

(Renewable energy stocks are part of the TSX’s utilities sector.)

How can you pick energy stocks?

1. Look for companies with a promising future 

It’s no surprise that the energy sector is under intense scrutiny. With climate change at the front of many people’s minds (from governments to investors), energy companies, old and new, are constantly adapting to a new world. Many people want cleaner energy. And it’s the energy sector’s challenge to make clean energy available — and profitable, too. 

For that reason, investors will do well to look for innovative companies that are actively solving contemporary energy problems. Though we’re not suggesting investors ignore bigger companies in oil or natural gas, we are suggesting you keep an eye on the future as you’re picking your energy stocks. 

Given the direction the world is going, ask yourself: who will be around in 20, 30, or even 40 years? That’s one of the biggest questions you can answer as an energy stock investor. 

2. Analyze an energy company’s financial standing

The future of an energy company depends in part on how it’s handling its finances now. Given that prices within the energy sector are extremely volatile — just look at how the price of gas fluctuates — you want to be sure an energy company has the financial strength to withstand a recession. Some factors you may want to analyze include: 

  • Strong balance sheet: the company should have lots of liquid cash on hand, as well as a capacity to borrow (if needed). It should also have low amounts of debt and a high investment grade. 
  • Low production costs: the company shouldn’t be spending the majority of its revenue on producing energy. The company should have a stable revenue with minimal exposure to price fluctuations. 
  • Conservative dividend payout ratio: though everyone likes to make money on dividends, if a company dishes too much out, it could end up cutting or reducing its dividend program during hard times. 

3. Check here for our writer’s picks

Our writers are constantly analyzing the energy sector, as they look for Canadian energy stocks that are growing, as well as those that are under- or over- valued. Keep checking back here to see which stocks they recommend — and which they don’t. 

[KevelPitch/]

In addition, you should read up on our Renewable Energy Stocks list.

Check back here for the most up to date information about energy stocks.

Top Articles

Energy Stocks

2 Top TSX Energy Stocks to Buy in January 2023

| Robin Brown

Here are two top TSX energy stocks that had a great year in 2022 and could be primed for strong…

Read more »

An engineer works at a hydroelectric power station, which creates renewable energy.
Energy Stocks

Why Algonquin Power & Utilities Stock Slid 49.3% Last Year

| Tony Dong, MSc, CETF®

Here's why shares of AQN fell hard last year.

Read more »

Energy Stocks

Is CNQ Stock a Buy in January 2023?

| Andrew Walker

CNQ stock is down from the 2022 high. Is it time to buy?

Read more »

Energy Stocks

Worried About a Recession? 3 TSX Giants to Outpace the Market

| Aditya Raghunath

Recession-resistant TSX stocks such as Fortis and Hydro One are well poised to deliver outsized returns to shareholders in 2023.

Read more »

A worker overlooks an oil refinery plant.
Energy Stocks

The Best Energy Dividend Stock for a Decade of Passive Income

| Aditya Raghunath

Canadian Natural Resources is a top TSX stock that has delivered stellar gains to long-term investors. Let's see why CNQ…

Read more »

oil and gas pipeline
Energy Stocks

Enbridge Is a High-Yielding Canadian Dividend Stock to Buy Now and Own Forever

| Adam Othman

Consider adding Enbridge stock to your portfolio, as it still trades below its all-time highs to capture its high-yielding dividend…

Read more »

Dividend Stocks

3 Growth Stocks You Can Buy Right Now with Less Than $100

| Christopher Liew, CFA

Capital of less than $100 is enough to buy one of these three promising growth stocks that don't belong to…

Read more »

Energy Stocks

2 Energy Stocks You Can Buy Right Now to Play The EV Boom

| Adam Othman

Add these two Canadian renewable energy stocks to capitalize on the growing EV popularity.

Read more »

Recent Energy Stocks News

oil pump jack under night sky
Dividend Stocks

This 7% Dividend Stock Pays Cash Every Month

| Christopher Liew, CFA

Dividend payers are hot plays in Q4 2024 because their share prices tend to rise as interest rates fall. Investors…

Read more »

Oil industry worker works in oilfield
Energy Stocks

2 Top Canadian Energy Stocks to Buy in October

| Robin Brown

Canadian energy stocks have been very volatile in 2024. The TSX Capped Energy Index has had over eight drawdowns of…

Read more »

Canadian dollars are printed
Dividend Stocks

The Smartest Dividend Stocks to Buy With $5,000 Right Now

| Christopher Liew, CFA

Three price-friendly stocks are the smartest buys for income-focused investors today.

Read more »

Trans Alaska Pipeline with Autumn Colors
Energy Stocks

Is Keyera Stock a Buy for its 4.7% Dividend Yield?

| Aditya Raghunath

Keyera Energy is a TSX dividend stock that offers shareholders a growing payout and forward yield of 4.7%.

Read more »

jar with coins and plant
Energy Stocks

3 Top TSX Dividend Stocks to Buy in October

| Sneha Nahata

These top Canadian dividend stocks have been consistently paying and increasing their payouts regardless of economic ups and downs.

Read more »

trends graph charts data over time
Energy Stocks

Where Will Fortis Stock Be in 5 Years?

| Joey Frenette

Fortis (TSX:FTS) stock could be a huge buy right here as it embarks on a five-year capital plan!

Read more »

Investor wonders if it's safe to buy stocks now
Energy Stocks

Is Cenovus stock a buy for its 3.1% dividend yield?

| Chris MacDonald

Let's dive into whether Cenovus Energy (TSX:CVE) is a top dividend stock to buy, or if investors would be better…

Read more »

Pumpjack in Alberta Canada
Energy Stocks

Should You Buy the 3 Highest-Paying Dividend Stocks in Canada?

| Christopher Liew, CFA

Three high-yield Canadian stocks are attractive for income investors but could be riskier than other dividend payers.

Read more »

Trans Alaska Pipeline with Autumn Colors
Energy Stocks

Is TC Energy Stock a Buy for its 6 Percent Dividend Yield?

| Brian Paradza, CFA

Income investors beware! The dividend yield on TC Energy (TSX:TRP) stock could be much lower than 6% going forward. Here's…

Read more »

A worker overlooks an oil refinery plant.
Energy Stocks

2 Energy Industry Stocks to Buy With $100 and Hold Forever

| Adam Othman

Add these two Canadian energy stocks to your portfolio for capital gains and dividends in the long run.

Read more »

Pumps await a car for fueling at a gas and diesel station.
Energy Stocks

Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Canadian Natural Resources vs Cenovus?

| Christopher Liew, CFA

Two TSX energy stocks are solid investment options but one is the best buy right now.

Read more »

Muscles Drawn On Black board
Dividend Stocks

TFSA: 2 Dividend Stocks That Could Rally in 2025

| Adam Othman

These two TSX dividend stocks can be excellent holdings for your TFSA leading into another year of stock market investing.

Read more »

Hiker with backpack hiking on the top of a mountain
Energy Stocks

Where Will CNQ Stock Be in 5 Years?

| Andrew Button

Canadian Natural Resources (TSX:CNQ) recently acquired $6.5 billion worth of assets from Chevron (NYSE:CVX).

Read more »

Start line on the highway
Dividend Stocks

TFSA Passive Income: 4 Stocks to Buy and Never Sell

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

Looking for stocks that create perfect passive income? This TFSA dream team is the perfect portfolio just waiting to happen.

Read more »

A worker uses a double monitor computer screen in an office.
Energy Stocks

Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Canadian Natural Resources vs Suncor?

| Adam Othman

When choosing between two energy stocks, it’s a good idea to understand and compare their business models, and not just…

Read more »

A lake in the shape of a solar, wind and energy storage system in the middle of a lush forest as a metaphor for the concept of clean and organic renewable energy.
Energy Stocks

Is Northland Power Stock a Buy for its 5.6% Dividend Yield?

| Kay Ng

Northland Power stock offers a nice monthly dividend with upside potential for when its construction projects come online through 2027.

Read more »

A child pretends to blast off into space.
Energy Stocks

Is TC Energy Stock a Good Buy?

| Jitendra Parashar

Here are some key reasons why TC Energy stock looks even more attractive to buy after its recent South Bow…

Read more »

Pumpjack in Alberta Canada
Energy Stocks

3 Must-Buy Energy Stocks for Canadians in October

| Brian Paradza, CFA

Top Canadian energy stocks are heating up this October. Secure your share of the potential gains now.

Read more »

nuclear power plant
Energy Stocks

1 Trending Growth Stock Down 8% to Buy and Hold for the Long Haul

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

This top mover has risen about 40% in the last month but is still down from its all-time high.

Read more »

a man relaxes with his feet on a pile of books
Dividend Stocks

How to Use Your TFSA to Earn $955/Year in Tax-Free Income

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

This trending stock can help you earn passive income without lifting a finger.

Read more »

oil and gas pipeline
Energy Stocks

Is Pembina Pipeline Stock a Buy for its 4.7% Dividend Yield?

| Jitendra Parashar

Besides its consistently growing dividend payouts, these growth initiatives make Pembina Pipeline stock even more attractive to buy now and…

Read more »

sale discount best price
Energy Stocks

Canadian Natural Resources Stock on Sale: Why Now’s the Time to Invest

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

CNQ made a major win from buying assets from Chevron stock. And yet, this company still seems to be on…

Read more »

money goes up and down in balance
Energy Stocks

Energy Stocks to Buy Now: Top Picks for Canadian Investors

| Adam Othman

These two high-yielding energy stocks might be excellent investments for Canadians bullish on the energy industry right now.

Read more »

Oil industry worker works in oilfield
Energy Stocks

A Few Years From Now, You’ll Wish You Had Bought This Undervalued Stock

| Adam Othman

Undervalued and modestly discounted stocks are cherished, but when the discount becomes too steep, and there are no substantial signs…

Read more »

oil and gas pipeline
Energy Stocks

Best Stock to Buy Right Now: TC Energy vs Enbridge?

| Christopher Liew, CFA

Two energy stocks are quality investments, although one has better growth prospects following a strategic move.

Read more »

Printing canadian dollar bills on a print machine
Dividend Stocks

Have $1,000? Here Are the Best Stocks to Buy Right Now

| Christopher Liew, CFA

A $1,000 investment is enough to buy the best stocks today for generous, sizeable returns.

Read more »

Energy Stocks

Where will Enbridge Stock be in 1, 3, and 5 years?

| Chris MacDonald

Let's dive into some projections as to where Enbridge (TSX:ENB) could be headed moving forward over the next few years.

Read more »

Energy Stocks

2 High-Yield Energy Stocks to Buy Hand Over Fist and 1 to Avoid

| Adam Othman

These high-yielding energy stocks may be worth buying in almost any given market, regardless of whether they are bullish or…

Read more »

Energy Stocks

Is Enbridge Stock a Buy, Sell, or Hold for 2025?

| Rajiv Nanjapla

Given its regulated underlying business, healthy growth prospects, high dividend yield, and attractive valuation, investors should buy Enbridge and hold…

Read more »

golden sunset in crude oil refinery with pipeline system
Energy Stocks

1 Magnificent Energy Stock Down 21% to Buy and Hold Forever

| Aditya Raghunath

Tourmaline Oil is a blue-chip TSX dividend stock that trades at a compelling valuation right now.

Read more »

A worker overlooks an oil refinery plant.
Energy Stocks

The Ultimate Energy Stock to Buy With $500 Right Now

| Demetris Afxentiou

Do you want to invest in the ultimate energy stock but only have $500? Here's one stock that can set…

Read more »

Energy Stocks

Is CNQ Stock a Buy, Sell, or Hold in 2025?

| Karen Thomas, MSc, CFA

Canadian Natural Resources is looking forward to increasing production and free cash flow, and ultimately, dividends.

Read more »

A worker overlooks an oil refinery plant.
Energy Stocks

Dividend Investors: Top Canadian Energy Stocks for October

| Sneha Nahata

Top Canadian energy companies have not only paid but also increased their dividends year after year, making them ideal investments…

Read more »

Energy Stocks

Is Suncor Stock a Buy for its 4% Dividend Yield?

| Andrew Walker

Suncor is up more than 20% in the past year. Are more gains on the way?

Read more »

oil and gas pipeline
Energy Stocks

Top Oil and Gas Stocks to Buy Now in Canada

| Andrew Walker

Oil prices are rallying on geopolitical fears. Are Canadian energy stocks undervalued?

Read more »

Energy Stocks

Is Suncor Energy Stock a Good Buy?

| Andrew Walker

Oil prices are rising on geopolitical risks.

Read more »

data analyze research
Energy Stocks

Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Suncor vs. Cenovus?

| Aditya Raghunath

Suncor Energy and Cenovus Energy are two TSX dividend stocks that trade at a compelling valuation right now.

Read more »

oil and natural gas
Energy Stocks

Best Stock to Buy Right Now: Baytex vs. Suncor?

| Kay Ng

One energy stock could provide higher returns but also comes with greater risk. The other offers better safety but lower…

Read more »

money cash dividends
Energy Stocks

This 11.1% Dividend Stock Pays Cash Every Month

| Amy Legate-Wolfe

This energy stock offers a massive dividend, together with a solid near-term future for those wanting cash on hand every…

Read more »

Energy Stocks

Is It Time for Canadians to Buy the Dip in This Stock?

| Andrew Button

Suncor Energy (TSX:SU) stock is in the midst of a correction. Is it time to buy the dip?

Read more »