Alberta re-enters pipeline arena, plans to propose new oil pipeline to B.C. coast
By Canadian Press on October 1, 2025.
CALGARY — Premier Danielle Smith said Wednesday that Alberta plans to submit an application for a new oil pipeline to northwestern British Columbia, describing it as a higher calling for those in need around the world.
“What stands before us right now is a once in a generation opportunity to unlock our wealth and resources and become a world-leading energy superpower,” Smith told a news conference in Calgary.
“The world wants more Canadian oil and gas,” she added.
“There are billions of people around the world living in energy poverty who demand a higher standard of living.
“This is not just a question of Alberta’s energy. It is a global, moral imperative.”
The proposal is to be filed to the new federal Major Projects Office, which aims to speed along developments deemed in the national interest. A submission is expected in the spring of next year.
Alberta plans to develop the project with the backing of an advisory group that includes three major Canadian crude pipeline operators: Enbridge Inc., Trans Mountain Corp. and South Bow Corp.
Smith said to do so, the federal government must overhaul or cancel what she termed restrictive measures on emissions and tanker transport that are deal-breakers for those wanting to invest in pipelines.
Indigenous co-ownership, partnership and perspectives will be critical to every stage of project development, she added.
“By doing this the right way from Day 1 with Indigenous partners and industry expertise, we will deliver a proposal that proves this project is undeniably in the national interest.”
The province is putting up $14 million to support early planning work on cost estimates, engagement and development of the proposal. Smith said while Alberta taxpayers are covering this, they would not be on the hook to build the pipeline.
“The goal of this planning and pre-front end engineering and design work is to determine the general path and size of the pipeline, quantify costs, initiate early Indigenous engagement and partnership, and make the clear case that this pipeline is in the national interest,” Energy Minister Brian Jean said in a news release.
The release also included statements from the chief of the Fort McKay First Nation in the oilsands region of northern Alberta and the president of the National Coalition of Chiefs.
“True partnership means listening to Indigenous voices, respecting our lands and ensuring our people share in the benefits,” said Fort McKay Chief Raymond Powder.
Dale Swampy, president of the chiefs’ coalition, said oil and gas participation can be a way to drive economic reconciliation.
“We are happy that Alberta is leading an effort to get another pipeline to the West Coast, and we are especially happy that they have decided to engage with Indigenous nations in B.C. and Alberta right from the very beginning of the process.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 1, 2025.
Lauren Krugel, The Canadian Press
21-20
Albertan tax payers get fleeced $14 million for Smith’s pipe dream that private industry doesn’t want to fund and that B.C. opposes. Now that’s a plan worthy of the UCP.
Why can’t the record profits oil companies sponsor the $14 million? Wouldn’t they profit the most?