Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith have announced a proposed west-to-east crude oil pipeline corridor aimed at moving Alberta oil to Ontario’s refining sector while expanding Canada’s energy and trade infrastructure.
The proposed Northern Shield Energy Corridor would stretch about 3,300 kilometres from Hardisty, Alta., to Sarnia, Ont., linking Alberta’s oil supply with Ontario’s refining belt. The project would remain entirely within Canada and use Canadian steel, according to details released by Ontario.
Northern Shield Energy Corridor Route
The proposed pipeline would carry about 500,000 barrels of oil per day for domestic use and export. The plan also includes room for future expansion to 800,000 barrels per day.
Ontario says the project would support Canadian energy security, reduce reliance on foreign markets, create jobs and help open new markets for Canadian oil.
The province is also reviewing possible extensions to new and existing ports. One option would allow Manitoba and the Manitoba-Crown Indigenous Corporation to study a potential extension to the Port of Churchill.
Pipeline Proposal Linked To Energy MOU
The proposal stems from a memorandum of understanding between Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan focused on new energy and trade infrastructure across Canada.
“By connecting Alberta’s energy with Canadian refineries and markets, we can create jobs, grow our economy and make better use of the world-class resources we already have,” Smith said in a news release.
“Alberta is committed to working with provincial and federal partners to turn this opportunity into reality. A new west-east pipeline will connect Canadian energy with Canadian consumers while laying the foundation for future growth.”
Ford said the plan is tied to job protection and long-term economic resilience.
“Our plan to build the Northern Shield Energy Corridor is a plan to protect workers in Ontario, Alberta and every part of the country,” he said.
“We’re going to keep working to build a more secure, united and resilient Canadian economy, so we can keep Canadian workers on the job, make life more affordable for Canadian families and help get Canadian energy to new markets across the country and around the world.”
Feasibility Study Expected By End Of 2026
Ontario says a feasibility study for the Northern Shield Energy Corridor is underway and expected to finish by the end of 2026.
The province also says it has started its duty to consult with Indigenous partners and communities, a step expected to play a central role as the proposal moves through review and planning.
