The premiers of Alberta and Ontario have revealed plans for a 3,300 km pipeline to carry oil from Western Canada to refineries in southern Ontario.
The proposed pipeline aims to transport around 500,000 barrels of oil per day initially, with potential expansion to 800,000 barrels per day.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Ontario Premier Doug Ford introduced the project in Calgary, presenting a suggested route starting from Hardisty, Alta., passing near Regina and Winnipeg, and ending in Sarnia, Ont.
The project is still in its early stages, lacking a set cost estimate or timeline.
Last autumn, the Ontario government initiated a feasibility study to assess the project’s viability and associated expenses, alongside engaging with Indigenous communities for consultations.
This pipeline proposal follows a prior agreement among Ontario, Alberta, and Saskatchewan to establish an energy corridor.
“It is crucial to act now to safeguard Canadian jobs and families. We need to expedite the process, which is why I am pleased to be here today advancing our agreement from the previous year as we unveil the route for the Northern Shield Energy Corridor,” stated Ford.
The envisioned corridor aims to transport oil, natural gas, and other energy products from Alberta and Saskatchewan to refineries and ports in southern Ontario.
According to Ford’s office, the feasibility study has incurred costs of $11 million so far, with the final expenses to be determined upon completion, expected by year-end.
The Manitoba government has declined to participate in the initiative due to the lack of initial involvement of Indigenous groups.
Premier Wab Kinew highlighted Manitoba’s commitment to undertaking large-scale projects with Indigenous partnership from the outset rather than post-consultation.
“Significant nation-building projects must be executed correctly. Hence, we are persisting in direct collaboration with northern communities, Indigenous Nations, and the Manitoba Crown Indigenous Corporation as we advance discussions concerning Churchill’s future. These dialogues will continue as enduring economic development stems from partnerships,” Kinew conveyed in an email statement.
Alberta and Ontario’s premiers have unveiled the proposed route for a 3,300-kilometre pipeline that would transport oil from Western Canada to refineries in southern Ontario. The Northern Shield energy corridor would start at Hardisty, Alta., pass near Regina and Winnipeg, and end in Sarnia. What’s still unknown are an estimated price tag, timeline and details about whether private investors are involved.
On Monday, Ford commended Kinew and expressed optimism for reaching a resolution.
“He needs to consult further with his constituents in Manitoba, but we will find common ground, and I fully support the construction of a pipeline to Churchill,” Ford remarked.
Ford suggested that the Ontario government might take ownership of the pipeline and cover construction costs if necessary.
“Let’s explore all possibilities,” he added. “I believe it is a worthwhile investment.”
Earlier, Ford disclosed a meeting with Dawn Farrell, who leads the