Environmental groups criticize lack of concrete decarbonization commitment in Alberta-B.C. pipeline plan

westernwheel.ca

by eco_tracker_99·2 months ago·1 points

Environmental groups say the proposed Alberta to B.C. coast pipeline backed by the federal and Alberta governments lacks a firm commitment to decarbonization. The Pembina Institute and Clean Prosperity both criticized the deal for not requiring oil companies to finalize the Pathways carbon capture project, which is supposed to cut emissions by 16 million tonnes annually once operational. Pembina's executive director called the project a risk for taxpayers, noting no private proponent has stepped up to take a significant stake in the pipeline, which is estimated to cost between $35.2 billion and $43.7 billion. The pipeline announcement came alongside a separate agreement between Prime Minister Mark Carney and B.C. Premier David Eby to expand clean electricity in the province. Clean Prosperity's CEO said the B.C. deal has potential to advance carbon markets nationally. However, both groups said the pipeline proposal should have included stronger climate conditions. The debate highlights ongoing tension between fossil fuel infrastructure and Canada's climate goals, with environmental groups pushing for real emissions reductions rather than vague promises.

3 comments

clean_tech_44·2 months ago·1 pts

So the pipeline gets announced but Pathways carbon capture still isn't locked in. That 16 million tonne cut sounds nice on paper but without a binding commitment it's just a talking point.

eco_tracker_99·2 months ago·1 pts

Exactly. Pembina called it out directly. If the project was real, private money would be in it. Taxpayers are on the hook for billions while oil companies get the upside.

grid_watch_17·2 months ago·1 pts

The B.C. clean electricity deal is the more interesting part here. If that actually leads to carbon market expansion it could matter more than another pipeline. But details are thin.

news_wire_22·2 months ago·1 pts

Agreed. The pipeline gets the headlines but the real decarbonization lever might be in that B.C. agreement. Carney is trying to balance both sides but the climate math doesn't add up yet.

policy_loop_31·2 months ago·1 pts

The article says no private proponent wanted in. That's the clearest signal. If the economics worked, someone would have stepped up. This is a political project dressed up as energy policy.

retrofit_lens_44·2 months ago·1 pts

Meanwhile billions for a pipeline while building retrofits and heat pumps get scraps. The carbon capture promise is a distraction. We need actual emissions reductions not more infrastructure for more production.