Alberta Premier Expects Private Proposal for New Oil Pipeline to B.C. Coast

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith anticipates a private-sector proposal for a new oil pipeline to British Columbia's northwest coast within weeks, aiming to diversify Canada's oil export routes and reduce reliance on the U.S. market. The proposed pipeline would likely run from Alberta's oil sands to the deepwater port of Prince Rupert, which can accommodate larger tankers than the existing Trans Mountain pipeline terminal in Burnaby. While the federal government has passed legislation to fast-track projects deemed of national interest, B.C. Premier David Eby opposes public funding for the new pipeline, emphasizing the existing Trans Mountain pipeline's available capacity and prioritizing privately funded projects. The federal tanker ban on large vessels along northern B.C.'s coast remains a significant obstacle to such projects, and political consensus is evolving amid strained U.S.-Canada relations under President Donald Trump. Alberta seeks to be among the first on the federal government's upcoming list of nationally important projects, with Prime Minister Mark Carney supporting accelerated infrastructure development to strengthen Canada's energy sector. Smith continues to engage major energy companies in pursuit of private investment for this strategic export initiative.