Photo: X / calgarynews

Alberta and Ottawa Push for New Pipeline, But No Builder Yet

For months, political leaders in Canada have spoken about the need for a new oil pipeline from Alberta to the B.C. coast. Such a project, they argue, would boost trade, support jobs, and bring billions into the economy. But despite the push, not a single major pipeline company has stepped forward to propose building one.

Political Leaders Push for Action

Alberta’s Premier Danielle Smith has been clear that her province wants another major export pipeline. She has argued it is important for Alberta, B.C., and the country as a whole. Prime Minister Mark Carney has also said it is “highly likely” that a proposal for such a project could soon be on Ottawa’s priority list.

To show its commitment, the federal government is opening a new Major Projects Office in Calgary. The goal is to speed up approvals for large infrastructure projects. These projects could include ports, power plants, mines, and pipelines. Alberta officials hope a new pipeline will be one of the first projects approved.

No Company Ready to Build

The challenge is that, so far, no company has said it will build the pipeline. Experts say this is not surprising. Building such a project is extremely expensive and risky. A company would have to spend tens of billions of dollars and possibly ten years or more to complete it.

History also makes companies cautious. The Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, for example, faced years of delays, major protests, and huge cost overruns. The federal government eventually had to buy the project to save it from collapse.

Because of these issues, pipeline companies are hesitant to commit to another major project.

Why Companies Are Holding Back

According to energy experts, there are many reasons companies are not coming forward. First, the process of building a pipeline is long and complicated. A company must carefully plan the route, meet with dozens of local communities, and make sure oil producers will actually use the pipeline.

Second, oil prices have not been as strong in recent years. While production in Alberta continues to grow, demand and pricing are not as high as they once were. In the early 2000s, many companies were eager to build in the oilsands. Today, the mood is more cautious.

Third, there is the issue of public opposition. Recent projects like the Trans Mountain expansion and Coastal GasLink in B.C. faced major protests. Any new pipeline proposal would likely face the same resistance. Companies know this could lead to delays and higher costs.

Government’s Balancing Act

The Canadian government is trying to find a balance. On one hand, oil remains a big part of the economy. One report said the Trans Mountain expansion will bring over $12 billion to industry and government in its first year. Leaders say another pipeline could deliver similar benefits.

On the other hand, Canada has also promised to reduce emissions and move toward cleaner energy. Building another major oil pipeline could raise questions about how serious the country is about this goal.

The Road Ahead

For now, Alberta and Ottawa are eager, but the private sector is silent. Without a company willing to build, the project cannot move forward.

Experts say oil pipelines may still be needed in the near future. Forecasts suggest Alberta’s export pipelines could be full by 2030. If that happens, new capacity will be necessary. But until companies feel confident about costs, risks, and public support, the idea of a new pipeline will remain only talk.

The debate shows how complicated Canada’s energy future is. Oil still makes money and creates jobs, but the push for cleaner energy is growing. Whether a new pipeline will ever be built depends on which path Canada chooses to prioritize.