The Ontario government has awarded a contract to conduct a feasibility study for a new Canadian East-West pipeline and energy corridor, a project aimed at strengthening the country’s energy security, supporting domestic manufacturing, and creating jobs.
The study will explore the potential for pipelines built with Canadian steel to transport oil and gas from Alberta and Saskatchewan to refineries in southern Ontario and to new ports on James Bay, Hudson Bay, and the Great Lakes. It will also examine corridor and site options, cost analysis, and complementary development opportunities across the province, including all-season roads in the Ring of Fire, mineral exports, grid upgrades, and a strategic petroleum reserve.
“We’re delivering on our plan to build a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy for Ontario and Canada and creating jobs for workers in the face of tariffs from the United States,” said Premier Doug Ford. “This nation-building pipeline and energy corridor will unite our country and help unlock new markets for Canada’s energy resources that will reduce our dependence on the United States, all while creating new jobs and opportunities for Canadian workers from coast to coast to coast.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, saying, “Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan are proving what’s possible when provinces lead and stand together to advance a shared vision of responsible development, economic freedom and common sense. 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.”
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe added, “Access to domestic and international markets is critical for Saskatchewan’s export-oriented economy. An East-West energy corridor is important for our province and for all Canadians, driving economic growth and delivering responsibly produced Canadian energy products to new markets. Saskatchewan is proud of our oil and gas sector and plans to aggressively grow production. New pipeline infrastructure will strengthen Canada’s energy security and help us become a global energy superpower.”
As the project progresses, Ontario has pledged to consult with Indigenous communities and advance economic reconciliation, including pathways for Indigenous equity participation. Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure, said, “We are seizing a generational opportunity to bring nation-building infrastructure projects, like the East-West energy corridor, to the forefront of our plan to build Ontario. This transformative project would connect provinces, unlock new export markets and ensure Ontario’s homes and businesses are powered by secure, Canadian-made energy, strengthening our economy for generations to come.”
Other ministers highlighted the benefits for Canadian families, businesses, and Indigenous communities. Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines, said, “We know that with new energy infrastructure, we can truly unlock our potential as an energy superpower. This corridor will strengthen Canadian energy independence, keep costs down for families and ensure Canadian interests always prevail.”
George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth, added, “Our government is committed to advancing infrastructure projects that foster economic growth in the North and protect Ontario jobs, businesses and industries. These proposed pipelines and port facilities would serve as a gateway to our northern seas to bring Ontario and Canada’s resources to new markets, reducing our reliance on the United States.”
Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation Greg Rickford said, “Our government is proud to work with First Nations leadership and communities on projects that support and sustain our shared priorities, both in Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan. Central to nation-building projects are First Nations-led economic growth and opportunities, which we will continue to support.”
The feasibility study will be conducted by an advisory team including GHD Limited, Ernst & Young LLP (EY Canada), Mokwateh, AtkinsRéalis Group Inc., Wood PLC, and Turner & Townsend Limited, with Infrastructure Ontario serving as commercial advisor. The study is expected to be completed next year.
Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding committing the provinces to future collaboration on energy and trade infrastructure, including critical minerals and natural resources, as well as the continued development of nuclear energy to meet growing demands.
