A $400-million expansion of the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system near Taylor has received regulatory approval, with construction now expected to begin early next year.
Enbridge said the Canada Energy Regulator has approved its Birch Grove Program, which will expand the northern section of the Westcoast system and add more natural gas transportation capacity.
Construction is now expected to get underway in the first quarter of 2027, earlier than the previously anticipated second-quarter start.
The project involves installing roughly 32 kilometres of new 36-inch-diameter pipeline alongside the existing system, about 16 kilometres southwest of Taylor.
Upgrades and modifications will also be made at Compressor Station 01 in Taylor and Compressor Station 16 in Groundbirch.
Enbridge said the project is expected to employ more than 600 workers at peak construction, creating additional demand for local hotels, restaurants and other businesses.
The company estimates the project will contribute about $168 million to B.C.’s economy.
Kaitlyn Beckett, senior project manager and Birch Grove program lead with Enbridge, said the regulatory approval provides certainty to move ahead with the project.
“We appreciate the timely regulatory approval of the Birch Grove Program and are excited to advance this critical energy infrastructure project. Timely and predictable regulatory decisions provide the certainty needed to move major projects forward. Canada is increasingly recognizing the importance of building energy infrastructure to diversify our economy, expand access to global markets through LNG exports and create economic prosperity here at home. Birch Grove will help to advance these ambitions while creating jobs and business opportunities for Canadians.”
The project is targeted to be in service by the third quarter of 2028.
Once operational, Enbridge says Birch Grove will add 178 million cubic feet per day of natural gas transportation capacity to the Westcoast system.
Beckett said construction planning is already moving forward, with the company continuing to engage with Indigenous groups, local communities and other stakeholders.
“We’re excited to move forward with construction planning and build on the work already underway to expand natural gas transportation capacity on the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system. We look forward to continuing to work with Indigenous groups, local communities and other stakeholders as the project moves toward construction.”
Enbridge said the additional capacity will help meet growing regional demand for natural gas and support potential LNG exports from the West Coast.
