Energy Minister Tim Hodgson has dismissed inquiries about the potential repeal of the tanker ban in Northern B.C. by the Liberal government as speculative, citing the absence of a formal pipeline proposal from Alberta for review. Hodgson made these remarks during a press briefing in Montreal, responding to Alberta’s intention to present a new bitumen pipeline project to the Northern B.C. coast, a move that garnered criticism from B.C. Premier David Eby.
Addressing the situation, Hodgson emphasized Alberta’s right to act as a proponent for the pipeline project and stated that a thorough evaluation would be conducted once the proposal is officially submitted for consideration.
Alberta’s rationale for leading the application process for the pipeline is rooted in the reluctance of private industry to invest in such a venture due to existing federal regulations, such as the 2019 restrictions on oil tankers in Northern B.C. waters.
In a separate statement, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith underscored the challenge of constructing a pipeline to the northwest coast while the tanker ban remains in place, echoing concerns raised by B.C. officials. Hodgson reiterated that the fate of the tanker ban hinges on the submission of a tangible project for review.
B.C. Energy Minister Adrian Dix emphasized the importance of the tanker ban in safeguarding the province’s coastal resources, emphasizing that active projects with committed proponents require federal support. Dix reiterated B.C.’s opposition to any endeavors that could adversely impact the province’s economy, citing the tanker ban as a linchpin for development on the northern coast.
Contrary to B.C.’s stance, Alex Pourbaix, the executive chair of Cenovus Energy and a member of Alberta’s pipeline oversight panel, disputed the notion that there is no viable business case for the bitumen pipeline project. Pourbaix highlighted the global demand for oil and emphasized the need for Canada to meet this demand to prevent other nations from supplying the market.
Looking ahead, the Alberta government aims to formally submit its pipeline application to the Major Projects Office in spring 2026, anticipating a potential shift towards private sector involvement as the project progresses. The ongoing debate underscores the complex interplay between economic interests, environmental concerns, and regulatory frameworks in the energy sector.
The divergent viewpoints between Alberta and B.C. underscore the intricate dynamics at play in the realm of energy development and environmental protection, with stakeholders on both sides advocating for their respective positions in a complex and evolving landscape.