A proposed pipeline carrying one million barrels of oil per day to Canada’s west coast has been listed as a project of national interest, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced October 1. The previously announced ownership framework would put 90 percent of the project in government hands.

Now called Pacific Link, the pipeline could generate more than $20 billion annually in Canadian GDP once operational, according to Alberta’s government. The province estimates increased oil production to fill the pipeline would deliver more than $265 billion in additional royalties over its roughly 50-plus years of operation.

Mark Carney announces Canada is officially listing the West Coast pipeline, now known as Pacific Link, as a project of national interest, with conditions on ownership, environmental protections and hiring to be finalized by September 2027. pic.twitter.com/1uv2vzgA4o

— Rebel News (@RebelNewsOnline) October 1, 2026

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“Today marks a significant victory for Alberta’s and Canada’s energy future,” Smith said.

Under the framework announced July 2, private-sector partner Pembina Pipeline Corporation would hold a 10 percent economic interest during construction. Federally owned Trans Mountain Corporation and Alberta’s Petroleum Marketing Commission would split the remaining interest equally, giving each a 45 percent stake. Pembina could acquire another 10 percent once commercial operations begin. Indigenous equity purchases would come from the governments’ shares. 

Earlier Canadian Press reporting put estimated construction costs at $35 billion to $44 billion, with Ottawa and Alberta expected to shoulder 90 percent. Applying Pembina’s proposed 10 percent share to that estimate yields approximately $3.5 billion to $4.4 billion, although that is not a confirmed cash commitment. 

Pembina’s July statement described its agreement as non-binding. The company retained discretion over its final investment decision, specified it would have no development capital at risk before that decision, and outlined protections concerning cost overruns and returns. 

Trans Mountain would develop, construct and operate Pacific Link, expanding access to Asia-Pacific markets.

According to Smith’s statement, the Major Projects Office and Canada Energy Regulator will work toward issuing a conditions document by September 1, 2027, following which construction can begin.

Alberta projects up to 140,000 jobs at peak construction, mostly in Alberta and British Columbia, and another 50,000 jobs annually supported by operations, production, maintenance and trade.

The October 1 statement did not announce a revised financing agreement or a date for the pipeline to enter service.