Pipeline Tensions: Alberta vs. British Columbia in Canada’s Energy Future

Mon Nov 17 2025 12:49:54 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The struggle over a proposed oil pipeline from Alberta to British Columbia highlights deepening rifts within Canada's national ambitions and its energy sector.

Amid Canada's efforts to assert itself as an 'energy superpower', tensions are rising between Alberta and British Columbia over a proposed oil pipeline. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith pushes for construction to access Asian markets, while BC Premier David Eby opposes the plan, citing environmental concerns. This feud underscores the challenges Canada faces in overcoming internal divisions to achieve its broader economic goals.

The oil pipeline feud testing Canada's global ambitions

As Canada looks to untangle itself from economic dependence on the US, the oil-rich province of Alberta is eyeing new customers in Asia through a proposed pipeline to the Pacific. However, resistance is strong.

The Alberta government under Premier Danielle Smith has outlined a plan to construct an oil pipeline to British Columbia's northern coast. This move is aimed at tapping into Asian markets but faces significant opposition from BC's Premier David Eby, who calls the proposal a 'fiction' with no viable company willing to undertake it.

The disagreement comes at a time when Canada is working to enhance its energy exports and lessen its reliance on the US amidst fluctuating trade conditions. Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent announcement of infrastructural projects excluded pipelines, focusing instead on critical minerals and liquefied natural gas (LNG) ventures.

While polls indicate considerable public support for an additional Alberta-BC pipeline, the internal rivalry raises doubts about Canada’s ambitions to become a global energy powerhouse. The historical divide between Alberta's oil interests and BC's environmental stance complicates the conversation, with indigenous groups also likely to oppose new developments, citing threats to sovereignty and environmental integrity.

The future of energy in Canada thus hinges not only on its vast oil reserves but also on finding common ground amid political divisions and environmental concerns.