The Ontario government has launched a feasibility study into building an East–West pipeline and energy corridor to “support national unity, economic growth, energy security and the path to net-zero,” according to the province’s announcement Thursday.
Infrastructure Ontario will act as the commercial adviser, while a consortium made up of GHD Ltd., Ernst & Young, AtkinsRéalis, Wood PLC and Turner & Townsend will complete the study. The review will assess corridor and site options, construction costs, steel sourcing and potential supporting infrastructure.
"Together, we are proving what’s possible when provinces lead and stand together to advance a shared vision of responsible development, economic freedom and common sense," said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith in a statement.
"That means standing up for our energy sector and ensuring our world-class resources reach the markets that need them, so Canadians can prosper from the opportunities we create here at home."
Smith added, "This study will explore the benefits of building new pipelines with Canadian steel to carry Western Canadian oil and gas from Alberta and Saskatchewan to new and established refineries in southern Ontario and new ports on James Bay, Hudson Bay and the Great Lakes."
Ontario noted the project could strengthen domestic supply chains. Ontario is currently reliant on crude that travels from Western Canada through the United States before re-entering the province—primarily via Enbridge’s Line 5 and Line 9 system—leaving a key portion of its energy supply exposed to foreign regulatory and political decisions.
The initiative follows an August agreement with Alberta and Saskatchewan to explore infrastructure collaboration linked to resource exports and domestic energy security.