Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has urged Prime Minister Mark Carney to accelerate federal approvals for major energy projects, calling for applications to be green-lit within six months rather than the current two-year target.
In a letter shared publicly on Friday, Smith highlighted recent developments in Venezuela, including the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and U.S. plans to boost Venezuelan oil production, as a key reason for speeding up Canadian approvals. “Renewed Venezuelan crude production will compete directly with Canadian heavy oil for limited refinery capacity,” Smith wrote, noting that delays could risk Canada’s market share and investment opportunities.
The premier also emphasized the need for new pipelines, including a West Coast route, to expand Alberta’s export capacity. Smith indicated that an application for such a pipeline will be submitted by June, with a request for approval by fall. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called for an even faster timeline of 60 days.
Smith stressed that Canada’s oil—produced with low emissions and modern practices—positions the country to meet global demand, particularly in Asia, if approvals are expedited. “The federal government must act with urgency to secure our energy future,” she said.
Prime Minister Carney confirmed his discussions with Smith focused on advancing major projects but did not directly address the six-month approval request. Energy Minister Tim Hodgson’s office stated that the government is working with Alberta to ensure a clear and efficient pipeline approval process, though specific timelines have yet to be finalized.
The premier’s push comes amid heightened U.S. investment in Venezuelan oil, with President Donald Trump promising $100 billion to expand production and government protection for investors. Smith warned that without faster Canadian approvals, Alberta risks losing strategic advantages in a rapidly changing global energy market.
