EDMONTON: Alberta says it remains on schedule to submit its proposed pipeline project to the federal government’s major projects office by the July 1 deadline, despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding the initiative.
The deadline was established under an agreement reached last month between the Alberta and federal governments, giving the province until Canada Day to formally present its proposal. If submitted on time, Ottawa will have until Oct. 1 to determine whether the project qualifies as one of national interest.
Provincial officials reaffirmed their commitment to meeting the deadline, although several key details about the proposed pipeline, including its route, financing, and development timeline, have yet to be made public.
The pipeline proposal is part of broader discussions between Edmonton and Ottawa aimed at strengthening Canada’s energy infrastructure while balancing economic growth and environmental commitments.
The bilateral agreement also outlines changes to Alberta’s industrial carbon pricing framework. Under the revised plan, the province’s carbon price will gradually increase to $130 per tonne by 2040, replacing the previous target of $170 per tonne by 2030, providing industries with a longer transition period.
Supporters argue the slower carbon pricing trajectory could improve investment certainty while allowing Alberta to pursue major energy projects. Critics, however, continue to question the pipeline’s feasibility and whether it can secure the necessary approvals within the proposed timeline.
With the July 1 submission deadline approaching, attention is now focused on whether Alberta will deliver its proposal as planned and how the federal government will respond in the months ahead.
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