Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says the province must increase oil production to fill a growing number of proposed pipelines, including the newly announced Northern Shield Energy Corridor. Speaking Monday alongside Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Smith emphasized the need for a long-term vision.
Northern Shield Pipeline Announced
The Northern Shield Energy Corridor is a joint proposal by Alberta and Ontario that could move up to 800,000 barrels per day (bpd) of western Canadian crude from Hardisty, Alberta, to Sarnia, Ontario. The 3,300-kilometre pipeline would initially have capacity for 500,000 bpd, with potential expansion to 800,000 bpd. It aims to enhance energy security and provide an alternative to Enbridge's Line 5, which runs under the Straits of Mackinac and has faced legal challenges from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Multiple Pipeline Proposals Underway
The Northern Shield joins a wave of pipeline projects: Enbridge, South Bow, and Trans Mountain Corp. have separately proposed expansions totaling over 1.2 million bpd. Last week, a joint Alberta-federal agreement for a major pipeline to the Pacific Coast also advanced. Smith expressed confidence that with proper incentives, new greenfield developments could fill these lines over 10 to 15 years.
Production Growth Needed
“We’ve got to think big, and we’ve got to be looking at being one of the top three energy producers and exporters in the world,” Smith said. She noted Alberta holds one of the largest oil reserves on the planet. The pipeline would also consider extending to the Port of Churchill, with Manitoba's involvement. Ford stressed the importance of self-reliance, adding that the government would engage the private sector but not hesitate to act if needed.
