Tilbury LNG Expansion Clears Regulatory Hurdle

B.C.'s Energy Minister Adrian Dix has signed an order allowing FortisBC's $2-billion expansion of the Tilbury Liquefied Natural Gas facility in Delta to proceed without normal approvals from the B.C. Utilities Commission.

The move, made through a cabinet order, exempts Phase 1B of the project from needing a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, which allows the Utilities Commission to consider whether a public utility's new energy supply project is in the public interest.

Dix believes the project is in the public interest because it brings in new investment and reduces emissions from dirtier fuels. He notes that the expansion plans have already undergone extensive environmental assessment, and that providing cleaner fuels has inherent environmental benefits.

The deal also provides an equity ownership stake for the Musqueam Indian Band, and represents a pivot for some in the B.C. NDP, who previously opposed the expansion.