Canada Advances West Coast Pipeline Project as National Interest

The Canadian government has begun the process to designate the proposed West Coast pipeline as a 'national interest' project. This move would allow the government to fast-track approvals and bypass some environmental laws, according to a notice published in the Canada Gazette on August 1.

The pipeline, which would carry up to one million barrels of crude oil per day from Alberta to British Columbia for shipment to international markets, has been referred to the government's major projects office. The Alberta government is listed as the proponent, and Pembina Pipeline Corporation holds a 10% ownership stake in the construction.

Environmental groups have criticized the move, with Julia Levin of Environmental Defence stating that the government 'quietly moved forward' with its plans despite the country facing severe wildfires and flooding. NDP Leader Avi Lewis called the pipeline project 'corporate welfare on a surreal scale', arguing that it is not being backed primarily by the private sector.

The federal government's definition of 'national interest' includes projects that strengthen Canada's autonomy, resilience, and security, provide economic benefits, have a high likelihood of success, advance Indigenous interests, and contribute to clean growth and meeting climate change goals. The proposed pipeline is a central component of an energy agreement between the federal and Alberta governments.