Enbridge starts construction on $4B Sunrise pipeline expansion in B.C.; project to boost capacity by 300M cubic feet per day

Enbridge Inc. has officially begun construction on the $4 billion Sunrise Expansion Program in British Columbia, following federal approval in April. This significant project aims to increase the province's natural gas transmission capacity by 300 million cubic feet per day, addressing the growing demand from households and emerging LNG export facilities.¹²⁵

The expansion will add approximately 140 kilometres of new pipeline, including 11 looping segments that will run parallel to the existing Westcoast system. Additionally, the project will incorporate upgrades and modifications to existing infrastructure, enhancing overall throughput through compression and other improvements.

Government officials estimate that the Sunrise project will contribute over $3 billion to Canada’s GDP, create around 2,500 jobs, and generate approximately $700 million in tax revenue. Chief Dolleen Logan of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation emphasized the collaborative effort, stating, “The Sunrise Expansion project demonstrates what’s possible when First Nations, industry and government work together with a shared commitment to building a stronger future.”³

Enbridge has committed to using Canadian-made materials, with the project utilizing steel that is 100 percent melted and poured in Canada, supplied by Saskatchewan-based InterPro Pipe + Steel. This focus on domestic production aims to strengthen Canadian supply chains and support local manufacturing jobs.

Federal Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson highlighted the rapid progress of the project, noting, “From approval to groundbreaking in just three months, the Sunrise Expansion Program shows how Canada is getting major projects built.”

The expansion is expected to be operational by late 2028, ensuring that natural gas supplies are available for both local needs and liquefied natural gas export facilities on the West Coast.