B.C. Premier Signals Potential Support for New Pipeline, Contingent on Tanker ban
VANCOUVER, B.C. – British Columbia Premier David Eby has indicated he could support a new oil pipeline project within the province if the federal government maintains its current ban on oil tankers along the northern coast. The statement marks a potential shift in B.C.’s position as negotiations continue following a recent agreement between Ottawa and Alberta regarding energy policy.
The agreement, which removes an oil and gas emissions cap, suspends clean electricity regulations, and aims to facilitate bitumen exports to Asian markets, includes the possibility of adjusting a 2019 law prohibiting oil tankers carrying over 12,500 tonnes of oil from loading or unloading at ports along B.C.’s northern coast.
Alberta has publicly expressed a preference for a pipeline terminating on B.C.’s north coast, specifically in Prince Rupert, according to energy policy analyst Lisa Svonkin. ”Alberta has been clear that they woudl like it to go from B.C.’s north coast,” Svonkin said. “In particular, Prince Rupert would be their stated preference.” She anticipates Alberta will factor this desire into ongoing discussions with the federal government.
However, maintaining the tanker ban could redirect the pipeline’s destination to Vancouver, where existing infrastructure already handles crude oil exports, such as the Trans Mountain Pipeline’s Westbridge marine terminal in Burnaby.
Eby previously voiced frustration at being excluded from initial negotiations between Ottawa and Alberta. He has also proposed an option to a new pipeline: increasing the capacity of the existing Trans Mountain pipeline by approximately 40 percent. The province has already authorized the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority to dredge the Second Narrows waterway to allow for increased oil loading at the Trans Mountain marine terminal.
Richard Masson, executive fellow at the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy, highlighted the logistical advantages of Prince Rupert, noting its proximity to both Edmonton and Asian markets, as well as its lower port congestion compared to Vancouver. “My understanding is that there are no other ports that could work,” he stated.
Any potential pipeline route will require thorough studies and consultation with First Nations, Svonkin emphasized. “You can’t do formal consultation on a project if you don’t know what the route is,” she said.
The proposed pipeline will not receive federal funding and is expected to generate significant debate. Coastal First Nations in B.C. have already signaled their preparedness to challenge pipeline projects in court.
Offices for Premier Smith and Premier Eby did not respond to requests for comment on Sunday.
