CLRA Welcomes Federal-Alberta Energy Agreement And Pathway For Major Pipeline Infrastructure
CLRA is encouraged by the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, which represents a significant step forward for Alberta’s construction industry. It signals the federal government’s commitment to building critical energy infrastructure that supports Canadian workers and our economy. The MOU establishes a clear pathway for a new pipeline to the west coast, with Alberta required to submit a formal proposal by July 1, 2026, for review through the newly established Major Projects Office. For CLRA members, this could mean one of Canada’s most significant pipeline projects in a generation – a line capable of moving one million barrels per day to Asian markets. But the pipeline is just the start. The agreement also supports the Pathways Alliance carbon capture project, which aims to become the world’s largest carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) network. Major transmission lines connecting Alberta, B.C. and Saskatchewan will be needed. Large-scale data center infrastructure is part of the framework. Long-term nuclear generation development is on the table to support an expanded low-carbon grid. Each of these represents significant construction opportunities for Alberta’s skilled trades. “This agreement shows that both levels of government understand what Alberta’s construction
