David SASSOLI, EP President meets with Mark CARNEY, Governor of the Bank of England
Federal fast-track law and private sector drive seen as keys to nation-building projects
Prime Minister Mark Carney says a new West Coast oil pipeline is highly likely to be proposed as a nation-building initiative, with strong potential to move forward under new federal fast-tracking legislation. Speaking at the Calgary Stampede, Carney linked the project with Alberta’s $16.5 billion carbon capture system as two major undertakings that could help shape the next chapter of Canada’s energy future.
Carney’s comments come just weeks after Parliament passed Bill C-5, a landmark measure designed to streamline approvals for developments deemed nationally significant. The legislation reduces regulatory barriers and aims to foster greater internal trade, giving large-scale infrastructure proposals a clearer path forward. According to Carney, the pipeline would need to come from the private sector, but would benefit from federal support and a more efficient review process.
The push for a new pipeline is gaining traction as existing routes near capacity. Industry groups and Alberta officials have signaled interest in a project capable of carrying up to 1 million barrels of oil per day to a northern British Columbia port. With global demand for Canadian heavy crude rising, a new export corridor is viewed as critical to long-term growth in the oil sands sector.
While Ottawa remains committed to climate goals, Alberta’s proposed carbon capture system has helped build common ground. The plan would see billions invested in emissions-reducing technology across the oil sands, positioning Alberta as a global leader in clean energy innovation. Carney has publicly supported the project as a cornerstone of Canada’s broader energy and environmental strategy.
Thomas Lukaszuk, cofounder of Forever Canadian a grass roots movement working to keep Alberta within Canada, said, “While what is being proposed is not yet clear, one thing is clear; no such project would be viable in an “Alberta Republic” or as a 51st Stat,” said Lukaszuk. “Threats of separation can only serve to scare off the necessary federal and private capital funding that will be necessary.”
“Alberta’s strength comes from being an integral part of Canada, not from being a constant thorn in its side,” added Lukaszuk
The potential alignment of a new pipeline and the carbon capture system reflects what some in the industry have called a grand bargain. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has stated that both projects could proceed together, balancing economic development with environmental responsibility. This approach has been welcomed by federal leaders as a sign of regional cooperation and pragmatic progress.
As the newly expanded Trans Mountain pipeline approaches full capacity, the need for additional infrastructure has become more urgent. With existing routes already delivering oil to markets in Asia and the United States, a second corridor would improve Canada’s energy security and global competitiveness.
Carney emphasized that while legislation provides the framework, real progress depends on collaboration between government and industry. With experienced teams now in place at the federal level and strong momentum from provincial leaders, both projects appear increasingly positioned to move from vision to reality.
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