CER gives green light to $340.9 million Taylor to Gordondale pipeline project

TAYLOR, B.C. — A natural gas liquids pipeline from Taylor to Gordondale has been given a green light, subject to 40 conditions. 

In a report released, the Commission of the Canada Energy Regulator (CER) recommended Pembina’s proposal be issued an authorization certificate. 

That includes both the pipeline and a new pump station at an existing Taylor Tank Farm.

Conditions of the certificate cover various aspects of construction and safety to Indigenous involvement and environmental monitoring, including plans for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and the creation of an Indigenous Project Committee. 

“After balancing the benefits and burdens of the project, the commission finds that the project would be in the public interest and recommends that a certificate be issued to authorize the project,” the report reads. 

The CER found the project, which is spearheaded by Pembina Pipeline’s subsidiary Pouce Coupé Pipe Line, is economically feasible and in alignment with regulatory and safety standards.

The pipeline will be 89 kilometres, running parallel to existing and approved rights-of-way for almost 94 per cent of that length. It is intended to transport natural gas liquids from the Montney region in northeastern B.C. to refineries, plants and storage facilities in Alberta.

The CER estimates the project will cost $340.9 million, and contribute around $112.1 million to B.C.’s GDP, $69.9 million to Alberta’s GDP and $29.9 million to the rest of Canada.

Although the CER acknowledged the project will have a cumulative impact on vegetation, wetlands and wildlife, it assessed these are expected to be of “low to medium significance” if the conditions are followed.

As the route crosses the traditional territories of Indigenous communities, including Blueberry River, the CER said it heard from 35 Nations as part of a 14-month decision-making process. 

“Their input played a vital role in informing the commission’s recommendation and ensuring that Indigenous perspectives were considered throughout the decision-making process,” said the CER in a press release issued on November 7th. 

View the full certificate recommendation report below: