Alberta Pipeline Expansion Faces Uncertain Future Amid Shift to Cleaner Energy
The proposed Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion has been touted as a boon for Alberta's oil industry, but some experts are questioning its viability. The pipeline would transport oil from Alberta to the coast of British Columbia, where it could be shipped to Asia.
However, China's growing demand for cleaner energy sources is expected to reduce their reliance on oil in the coming years. In fact, they are already building solar and wind farms at a rapid pace, with high-speed electric trains and electric cars becoming increasingly popular.
Meanwhile, South Korea has expanded its renewable capacity three-fold by 2030 in response to the Iran war, while Indonesia has set ambitious solar targets to reduce its oil dependence. Vietnam and the Philippines are also shifting towards cleaner energy sources, making it unlikely that Alberta's oil will be in high demand.
In addition to declining demand, there is also a concern about supply. Saudi Arabia, one of the world's largest oil producers, is initiating a massive solar program, which could reduce their reliance on oil and lower global prices.