Thermal Process Expo Industry News: Public-Private Partnership Ushers in a New Chapter as Alberta and B.C. Join Forces to Advance the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion

Thermal Process Expo has learned that a new pipeline project designed to transport Alberta's oil sands resources directly to the coast of British Columbia will be developed under a public-private partnership model. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith jointly announced this major infrastructure initiative Thursday evening in Calgary, marking a new phase in Canada's energy transportation strategy.

At a press conference, Prime Minister Carney emphasized that this collaborative model "provides certainty for our businesses to build." He elaborated on the partnership structure: "Canada and Alberta will be equal partners in this project. Trans Mountain Corporation will be responsible for planning and construction, working closely with Pembina Pipeline Corporation, which will bring its private-sector expertise and capital discipline to both the construction and operation of the pipeline." This arrangement is designed to combine public-sector resources with private-sector efficiency.

The project is planned to be built along the existing federally owned Trans Mountain pipeline corridor, which runs from Edmonton to the terminal in Burnaby, B.C. Premier Smith characterized the government's role as a "catalyst" aimed at reducing risks for private capital and ensuring the project moves forward smoothly. She revealed that the proposal will be submitted immediately to the federal Major Projects Office as a "national interest project." Once approved, the new pipeline will extend from Bruderheim, Alberta (northeast of Edmonton) to a deep-water port on B.C.'s south coast capable of accommodating very large crude carriers (VLCCs).

Regarding funding, Thermal Process Expo understands that Prime Minister Carney framed it as an "investment" rather than a "spending." He noted that while the cost of the existing Trans Mountain pipeline surged from CAD 4.5 billion at the time of federal acquisition in 2018 to over CAD 35 billion when it came into service in May 2024, it has since proven to be "highly profitable." Both leaders also committed to engaging in in-depth negotiations with Indigenous communities, with the expectation that they will become full partners in the project. Premier Smith stated that the proposal is the result of months of intense work, paving the way for rapid project advancement.

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