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Alberta's Pipeline Plans Focus on Public Investment Amid Questions Over Beneficiaries

Published July 5, 2026 at 3:41 PM UTC

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In early July 2026, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a proposed oil pipeline from Alberta to the southern coast of British Columbia. The project aims to transport over one million barrels of oil per day to Asian markets, enhancing Canada's energy export capacity. The pipeline is expected to follow the existing Trans Mountain route, with construction led by Trans Mountain Corporation, a federal Crown corporation. Pembina Pipeline Corporation, a private-sector company, has agreed to participate as a minority partner, holding a 10% stake during construction, with the potential for an additional 10% once the project becomes operational. The remaining shares will be equally divided between Trans Mountain Corporation and the Alberta Petroleum Marketing Commission, both of which are government entities. This structure indicates a predominantly public investment in the project. The federal and provincial governments have committed to supporting the pipeline's approval and construction, with the federal government referring the proposal to the Major Projects Office (MPO) to consider listing it as a national interest project under the Building Canada Act. Consultations with Indigenous groups, provinces, and territories are set to begin immediately. The project is anticipated to generate significant economic benefits, including employment opportunities and increased government revenues. However, concerns have been raised regarding the heavy reliance on public funding and the limited private sector involvement, prompting questions about the distribution of benefits and the financial risks associated with the project.