A majority of British Columbia residents support the federal government's approval of Enbridge's Westcoast LNG pipeline expansion, according to new data from the Angus Reid Institute. The survey reveals that 61 per cent of B.C. residents are in favor, reflecting a significant shift in public opinion on pipeline projects in Canada's westernmost province.
Nationally, support for the expansion stands at 55 per cent, with opponents outnumbered by a three-to-one margin. The federal government approved the $4-billion expansion of the southern portion of Enbridge's Westcoast natural gas pipeline system in April. This pipeline transports natural gas from northeastern B.C. to consumers and businesses in the Lower Mainland.
Growing Appetite for Pipeline Capacity
According to the Angus Reid Institute, there is a growing desire for more pipeline infrastructure. Half of Canadians (48 per cent) and 46 per cent of B.C. residents believe the federal government is doing too little to build new pipeline capacity. Nationally, 31 per cent say the government's approach is about right, while 21 per cent think there is too much focus on pipelines.
Shift in Priorities
The data indicates a major shift in Canadian energy priorities since 2019, when the Trans Mountain expansion was debated. At that time, 55 per cent prioritized environmental protection over economic growth. Now, three in five Canadians (61 per cent) say economic growth should be the bigger focus.
In B.C., opposition to pipelines has declined over time. In the 2010s, majorities opposed projects like Northern Gateway (57 per cent in 2012) and the Trans Mountain expansion (54 per cent in 2014). However, recent data shows that 55 per cent of British Columbians would support a revival of Northern Gateway, and 56 per cent back a similar pipeline proposed by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.
Angus Reid attributes this shift to economic threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, which have made energy security and economic growth more pressing concerns for Canadians.
