Alberta proposes new $35‑43 billion oil pipeline to British Columbia coast amid mixed environmental reaction

The Alberta government announced a proposal for a new oil pipeline running to British Columbia’s southern coast, estimated to cost between $35.2 billion and $43.7 billion. The project, to be built with Trans Mountain and Pembina Pipeline, aims to begin construction on 1 September 2027. Federal authorities pledged billions in infrastructure funding for British Columbia and reaffirmed the ban on oil tankers on the province’s North Coast. Premier David Eby said he will not oppose the pipeline in court.

Environmental groups expressed mixed views. Flossie Baker of Sierra Club BC called the decision to keep the North‑Coast tanker ban “a huge victory” for First Nations, businesses and residents. Conversely, Climate Action Network Canada argued the pipeline “is the wrong direction” and urged Canada to focus on renewable energy. West Coast Environmental Law and staff lawyer Anna Johnston warned that “some things are too precious to sacrifice.” First Nations that would have been affected by a northern route, including the Coastal First Nations alliance and the Gitxaala Nation, welcomed the continued tanker ban.

The agreement also includes new environmental protections for the coast and a liability fund for any pipeline incidents.