Canada Moves Closer to New Western Coast Pipeline After Federal-Alberta Agreement

The federal government and the Alberta government have advanced a new climate and energy agreement that could pave the way for the construction of an oil pipeline to Canada’s western coast beginning in September 2027. According to an official who spoke during a technical briefing on Friday, the Alberta government expects the proposed pipeline to begin transporting oil sometime after 2033 or 2034. The announcement was made in Calgary by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith on Friday. Officials stated that the agreement builds upon a memorandum of understanding signed by Alberta and the federal government in November. The deal also includes a proposal to increase Alberta’s industrial carbon pricing framework. The Alberta government said that the design and construction phase of the pipeline project could officially begin on September 1, 2027. Both governments emphasized that the process would respect Canada’s duty to consult Indigenous communities. They also confirmed that discussions regarding the pipeline application would involve the province of British Columbia. Premier Danielle Smith described the agreement as a positive step for both Alberta and Canada. She said the signing of the deal brings the country closer to achieving its shared goal of becoming a global energy leader.