Alberta pipeline announcement tied to Pathways carbon capture project this week

Alberta is set to announce new details on a proposed West Coast oil pipeline on Thursday. The pipeline would carry up to one million barrels per day from the oilsands to a West Coast port for export to Asia. Federal support for the pipeline is tied to the Pathways carbon capture and storage project, which is meant to offset some emissions from increased oilsands production. The pipeline faces key hurdles. No private sector proponent has come forward, and a route has not been identified. Retired pipeline executive Dennis McConaghy says oilsands CEOs will be reluctant to sign on as shippers unless climate policy changes, including relief from the industrial carbon tax and the multi-billion dollar Pathways requirement. Prime Minister Carney will be in Alberta on Canada Day, a day before the announcement. He has acknowledged that emissions will rise under the new policy direction, departing from the previous climate plan. The Alberta government aims for a project of national interest designation by October and construction starting as early as September 2027.