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EDMONTON — Alberta’s government is taking the lead in preparing a new West Coast pipeline proposal, forming a technical advisory group with major energy companies and Indigenous partners to develop an application for federal approval.
Premier Danielle Smith said the project will be submitted to the Federal Major Projects Office under the Building Canada Act as a “project of national significance.” Alberta is acting as the proponent with technical advice from Enbridge, Trans Mountain and South Bow. The province is contributing $14 million for early planning, engineering and Indigenous engagement.
“This project application is about more than a pipeline; it’s about unlocking Canada’s full economic potential,” Smith said in a statement. “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 initiative will focus on planning a crude oil pipeline from Alberta to the northwest coast of British Columbia. The government says Indigenous communities in both provinces are being engaged from the start, with co-ownership and partnership expected to play a central role.
Energy and Minerals Minister Brian Jean said additional infrastructure to tidewater would expand Canada’s export markets in Asia and support Ottawa’s stated ambition to become an “energy superpower.”
Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney said engagement will reflect the diversity of Indigenous governance structures and ensure communities are recognized as rights holders, leaders and owners. “This is about partnerships and building trust from Day 1 – ensuring Indigenous voices shape the decisions that affect their lands and futures,” she said.
Some Indigenous leaders have welcomed the approach. Fort McKay First Nation Chief Raymond Powder said true partnership means ensuring communities share in the benefits. Dale Swampy, president of the National Coalition of Chiefs, said ownership opportunities in oil and gas can advance economic reconciliation.
The technical advisory group includes government officials, industry executives and Indigenous leaders. Co-chairs are Energy deputy minister Larry Kaumeyer and Cenovus executive chair Alex Pourbaix. Other members include former Enbridge CEO Al Monaco, Saa Dene Group chair Chief Jim Boucher, and Métis Settlements General Council president Dave Lamouche.
The government expects to file its application in spring 2026. If approved, officials say the project could significantly expand access for Alberta crude to Asian markets including Japan, Korea, China and India.
Alberta points out Canada is the world’s fourth-largest oil producer with the fourth-largest proven reserves. Net export receipts for crude have risen from $6 billion in 2000 to $130 billion in 2024.
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