2,050-Mile Northern Shield Pipeline Proposed From Alberta to Ontario

Ontario and Alberta have unveiled the proposed route for the 2,050-mile Northern Shield Energy Corridor, a crude oil pipeline that would transport up to 500,000 bpd from Hardisty to Sarnia, with expansion potential to 800,000 bpd as a feasibility study moves forward.

(P&GJ) — Ontario and Alberta have unveiled the proposed route for the 3,300-kilometer (2,050-mile) Northern Shield Energy Corridor, a proposed crude oil pipeline that would transport up to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) from Hardisty, Alberta, to Sarnia, Ontario, with the potential to expand capacity to 800,000 bpd.

The proposed corridor would run entirely through Canada, linking Alberta's oil production with refineries and existing energy infrastructure in Sarnia while reducing reliance on imported crude and expanding access to domestic and export markets.

Ontario said the primary route would terminate in Sarnia, where existing refining, pipeline and shipping infrastructure could support additional crude supplies. The province is also evaluating pipeline extensions to existing and new ports, including the potential for a connection to the Port of Churchill through Manitoba.

Officials said the project could improve supply reliability, provide redundancy to existing pipeline infrastructure and support a potential strategic petroleum reserve.

The provinces are studying commercial models, estimated project costs and related infrastructure opportunities, including electricity grid upgrades. A feasibility study is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Ontario has also begun consultations with Indigenous communities while pursuing opportunities for Indigenous equity participation in the project.

Premier Doug Ford said the proposal is intended to strengthen Canada's energy infrastructure while supporting economic growth.

"Our plan to build the Northern Shield Energy Corridor is a plan to protect workers in Ontario, Alberta and every part of the country," Ford said.

"We're going to keep working to build a more secure, united and resilient Canadian economy... and help get Canadian energy to new markets across the country and around the world."

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said the pipeline would connect Canadian crude with domestic refineries while supporting future growth.

"By connecting Alberta's energy with Canadian refineries and markets, we can create jobs, grow our economy and make better use of the world-class resources we already have," Smith said.

"A new west-east pipeline will connect Canadian energy with Canadian consumers while laying the foundation for future growth."

The feasibility study is being led by Infrastructure Ontario with support from GHD, Ernst & Young Canada, Mokwateh, AtkinsRéalis, Wood and Turner & Townsend.