The Alberta government intends to submit a formal application to the federal Major Projects Office for a new bitumen pipeline to the northwest coast of British Columbia. The province revealed on Wednesday its commitment of $14 million to the project and its role as the proponent, overseeing a technical advisory group with major pipeline companies Enbridge, South Bow, and Trans Mountain. Although these companies may not be directly involved in the project’s execution if it proceeds, they are part of the advisory group.
No specific route for the pipeline has been proposed yet, and the identification of potential routes is part of the province’s planned activities. Both the federal and British Columbia governments have been informed of Alberta’s intentions. The project has already involved some Indigenous groups like the Fort McKay First Nation and the National Coalition of Chiefs.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith emphasized that the pipeline application aims to unlock Canada’s economic potential and that collaboration with Indigenous partners and industry experts is crucial for its success. Due to private industry’s hesitance to invest in such a project under current federal regulations, including the 2019 oil tanker restrictions in B.C.’s northern waters, Alberta sees the need to lead the application.
Smith expressed optimism about potential revisions to the tanker ban law and mentioned plans to seek reforms to the Impact Assessment Act and the proposed federal cap on oil and gas sector emissions. The province’s objective is to secure a private sector company or consortium to construct and operate the new bitumen pipeline, with the application submission expected in spring 2026.
In response to the proposal, British Columbia Premier David Eby criticized the lack of substance and heavy government involvement, contrasting it with other forthcoming projects. Eby highlighted concerns about the impact on real private sector projects contingent on the existing tanker restrictions.
Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre voiced support for private investment in profitable pipeline projects, urging the government to facilitate rather than hinder their development. He emphasized the importance of private sector involvement and profitability in such ventures.
Federal Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson affirmed the government’s commitment to evaluating all project proposals under consistent rules, emphasizing the significance of Indigenous consultations, collaboration with affected jurisdictions, and alignment with climate change objectives.
The announcement from Alberta follows extensive discussions between federal and provincial authorities and the private sector regarding infrastructure initiatives. In line with efforts to boost infrastructure construction nationwide, Alberta aims to attract private players for major crude oil pipeline projects, with expectations of forthcoming proposals. Notable developments include the establishment of the Major Projects Office in Calgary and the identification of priority “nation-building” projects by the federal government.
The federal government, however, did not include an Alberta-based oil pipeline project in the initial tranche of priority projects.
