The Carney government is set to unveil changes this week aimed at accelerating approvals for natural resource projects, with a particular focus on pipelines and energy developments. Federal sources confirm the plan targets a streamlined two-year decision timeline for major projects, fulfilling a key campaign promise of one review per project.
The proposed overhaul will introduce comprehensive updates to the regulatory framework for all federally regulated major initiatives, not just those deemed of national importance under previous legislation like Bill C-5.
While full details remain under wraps, the changes are expected to ease the path for pipeline construction, though mandatory consultations with Indigenous communities will remain intact. Industry stakeholders are likely to welcome the move, while environmental groups may raise concerns over the potential sidelining of ecological considerations.
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This announcement coincides with ongoing negotiations between Ottawa and Alberta over last year’s memorandum of understanding (MOU), which includes plans for a pipeline to the West Coast. A sticking point in the talks revolves around the industrial carbon price, with Alberta pushing for a $130 per tonne cap until 2050, while the federal government seeks to establish it as a starting point for future increases. Current carbon credits in Alberta trade at $40 per tonne, far below the headline price of $95.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Mark Carney in Ottawa on Friday, expressed cautious optimism about the negotiations. “We’re making progress,” she said, highlighting the challenge of balancing effective carbon pricing with protections against high costs for industry and taxpayers through mechanisms like contracts for differences.
Another layer of complexity involves the Clean Electricity Regulations, which the MOU stipulates will be placed in abeyance in Alberta upon completion of a new carbon pricing agreement. With Smith also set to address the Canada Strong and Free Network Conference during her visit, the outcome of these discussions could shape energy policy for years to come.
As the federal government moves forward with consultations before legislating these changes, the two-year approval timeline stands as a concrete benchmark for industry planning in 2026.
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