Alberta launches website for potential new West Coast oil pipeline
The Alberta government has launched a website for the pipeline it wants to see built through B.C. to the coast.
CALGARY, ALTA — The Alberta government has launched a website for the bitumen pipeline it wants to see built to the northwest B.C. coast.
It says the page will act as a central hub for project information and updates to ensure transparency and open dialogue.
It includes a section dedicated to debunking myths, such as that construction has begun, the province is paying for the project and a route has been decided.
In October, the province announced it would spend $14 million on early planning work, but the aim is for the private sector to eventually take the lead and for Indigenous partners to come on board.
Support for the idea was a centrepiece of a sweeping energy accord signed between Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney late last year.
The province says it plans to have an application ready on or before July 1st to the new federal major projects office, which aims to speed along infrastructure projects deemed in Canada’s national interest.
“With the launch of this new web page, we’re providing a transparent, accessible platform for everyone in Canada to stay informed,” energy and minerals minister Brian Jean said in a news release on Tuesday.
The early work includes engaging Indigenous communities, determining the pipeline’s route and size and demonstrating the market demand, economic viability and need for a new pipeline.
“This new web page is more than a resource — it’s a commitment to transparency,” said Alberta Indigenous relations minister Rajan Sawhney.
“Indigenous communities are helping guide the way on this project from day one, and access to clear, factual information ensures their leadership continues to shape every step.”
Smith has said the pipeline could carry up to a million barrels a day of oilsands crude to the coast for export to Asia and has said the Port of Prince Rupert would be a good location for the marine terminal.
Alberta plans to develop the project with the backing of an advisory group that includes three major Canadian crude pipeline operators: Enbridge, Trans Mountain Corp. and South Bow Corp.
No company has stepped forward to actually build the pipeline.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published January 6th, 2026.
Lauren Krugel, The Canadian Press
Stay connected with local news
Make us your
home page
Authors
Related Articles
Eby pitches ‘pivot’ from oil pipeline to refinery talks after Maduro capture
British Columbia premier David Eby says he would support building a new oil refinery in Canada over talk of a new pipeline across B.C. in the aftermath of the American capture of Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro.
Poilievre calls for immediate pipeline approval following U.S. action in Venezuela
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is urging the Liberals to “immediately approve” a pipeline to the west coast of B.C. as the industry faces the possible end of American sanctions on Venezuelan oil.
Alberta’s Danielle Smith says Maduro capture outlines urgency of West Coast pipeline
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says the American capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro underlines the urgency of building oil pipelines to export Canadian oil to new markets, including a new pipeline to British Columbia’s West Coast to reach markets in Asia.
