Ford, Smith unveil plan for new ‘Northern Shield’ oil pipeline between Alberta and Ontario

The premiers of Alberta and Ontario unveiled a proposed 3,300 km pipeline to transport oil from Western Canada to refineries in southern Ontario.

The pipeline would transport an estimated 500,000 barrels per day of oil with possible expansion to 800,000 barrels per day.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Ontario Premier Doug Ford made the announcement on Monday in Calgary, included the unveiling of a proposed route that would begin at Hardisty, Alta., and travel near Regina and Winnipeg before reaching Sarnia, Ont.

The project is still in its infancy and there is no estimated price tag or timeline for the project.

Last fall, the Ontario government launched a feasibility study to develop the project, including an understanding of the potential costs. The provincial government is also beginning consultation with Indigenous communities.

The pipeline proposal follows a prior agreement among Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan to pursue an energy corridor.

"We need to take action now to protect Canadian jobs and Canadian families. We need to move quicker, faster, immediate. That is why I'm thrilled to be here today making progress on our agreement from last year as we unveil the route for the Northern Shield Energy Corridor," said Ford.

The vision for the corridor is to carry oil, natural gas and other energy products from Alberta and Saskatchewan to refineries and ports in southern Ontario.

The Manitoba government has refused to join the initiative because Indigenous groups are not involved from the start.

Premier Wab Kinew said Manitoba will pursue large-scale projects that begin with Indigenous partnership rather than consultation after the fact.

On Monday, Ford praised Kinew and seemed hopeful of a resolution.

"He has to consult a little more with his folks in Manitoba, but we'll work something out and I'm 100 per cent behind putting a pipeline up to Churchill," he said.

Ford said the Ontario government could be the owner of the pipeline and foot the bill for construction, if needed.

"Let's take a look at all options," he said. "I think it's a great investment."

The pipeline could eventually allow for Alberta oil to be exported to Europe, said Smith.

"Alberta is ready to work with our provincial and federal counterparts, Indigenous partners and industry leaders to advance this proposed pipeline and energy corridor," said Smith.

Monday's announcement comes on the heels of Smith moving ahead with a different pipeline project to the West Coast last week.

Alberta formally proposed the oil pipeline to the southwest coast of British Columbia, in partnership with federally-owned Trans Mountain Corp. and Calgary-based Pembina Pipeline Corp. acting as the private proponent.