Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has welcomed the federal government’s decision to designate the proposed Pacific Link oil pipeline as a project of national interest, calling the move an important step toward expanding Canada’s energy infrastructure and access to international markets.
In a statement issued October 1, Smith said the designation under the Building Canada Act could strengthen Canada’s energy security while creating new economic opportunities for Alberta and other parts of the country.
The proposed pipeline is expected to have the capacity to transport one million barrels of oil per day to Canada’s west coast. The project is intended to provide greater access to markets in the Asia-Pacific region, potentially expanding the customer base for Canadian crude.
According to the Alberta government, construction of Pacific Link could generate as many as 140,000 jobs at its peak, with most of those positions expected to be in Alberta and British Columbia. Once operational, the project could support another 50,000 jobs annually through production, maintenance, operations and related trade activities.
Smith also pointed to the potential long-term revenue generated by the pipeline. Alberta expects increased oil exports to contribute substantially to provincial royalty revenues, which fund public services including health care and education.
The province said the project is being advanced through cooperation between the Alberta Petroleum Marketing Corporation, the federal government, Trans Mountain Corporation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation.
Indigenous Participation Highlighted
Indigenous participation is also expected to play a significant role in the development of Pacific Link. Smith said partnerships with Indigenous communities could include opportunities for ownership, participation and long-term economic benefits.
The premier described the federal designation as evidence that different levels of government can work together on large-scale infrastructure projects. She said Alberta would continue discussions with Indigenous communities, industry and Ottawa as the proposal moves forward.
The announcement comes amid broader efforts to expand Canadian energy exports and attract investment in major infrastructure. Smith said Alberta intends to use its resource base and energy industry to strengthen Canada’s position in global markets.
The Pacific Link proposal will now move forward under its national-interest designation, although the project will still face the regulatory, environmental, consultation and development processes required before construction can proceed.
