BC Premier Defends Minister's LNG Expansion Criticism

British Columbia Premier David Eby has defended Minister Kelly Greene's decision to publicly denounce plans for the expansion of the FortisBC Tilbury LNG project. Despite his government advocating for the project, Eby said he helped Greene write her statement criticizing the plan due to their 'big tent' approach.

The project aims to produce more liquefied natural gas (LNG) at the Port of Vancouver and improve access to LNG fuelling for vessels traveling the coast and across the Pacific. However, Greene's statement raised safety concerns about a possible incident at the site near her riding of Richmond-Steveston.

Eby said that his government's approach allowed Greene to speak out against the decision, which is uncommon for ministers to do. The project would normally require a certificate of public convenience and necessity from the B.C. Utilities Commission before proceeding, but the government exempted it from this requirement due to concerns about time and investment.

The expansion is expected to create 1,100 jobs during construction and generate $260 million in tax revenues. The project still requires other regulatory approvals and permitting requirements before construction can start by mid-2027, with operation starting as early as 2031.