Project Roundup: Major Projects on the North Coast

The North Coast is buzzing with energy. Several major projects are happening in and around Gitga'at territory, from Kitimat to Prince Rupert and beyond. These projects bring opportunities, jobs, and partnerships to local communities.

Here’s an update on the big projects going on in the area:

LNG Canada

LNG Canada is the biggest private-sector investment in Canadian history, with a price tag of $40 billion. The project is now more than 95% complete, and the first LNG tanker has already sailed past Hartley Bay, heading up Douglas Channel to Kitimat. This project marks Canada’s entry into the global LNG market. When fully operational, the plant will produce about 14 million tonnes of LNG each year, with most shipments going to Asia.

There are plans for LNG Canada Phase 2. If approved, this expansion would double the facility’s production to 28 million tonnes of LNG per year, making it one of the largest LNG export terminals in the world. Phase 2 is fully permitted and would add two more processing lines or trains. The Coastal GasLink pipeline, which was completed in 2023, is designed to support both phases of the project.

While there is no set timeline for a final investment decision on Phase 2, partners are actively discussing how to make the expansion competitive and beneficial for all involved. The main focus right now is to get Phase 1 up and running smoothly. 

Cedar LNG

Cedar LNG is a partnership between the Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation. This $4 billion project is the world’s first Indigenous majority-owned LNG facility. It will be a floating LNG plant in Kitimat, powered entirely by clean energy from BC Hydro. Cedar LNG is seen as a model for responsible, low-carbon resource development. The project is progressing, with construction contracts awarded and focusing on local jobs and opportunities for the Haisla people.

AltaGas/Vopak

On Ridley Island in Prince Rupert, AltaGas and Vopak are building the Ridley Island Energy Export Facility (REEF). This terminal will export propane and butane, with potential plans to add bulk liquids, ethane and other products in future project phases. The bulk of construction is set for 2025 and 2026. The facility will help Canada meet the growing global demand for energy and strengthen our position as a reliable supplier.

Ksi Lisims LNG

The Ksi Lisims LNG project is owned by the Nisga’a Nation, Rockies LNG, and Western LNG. The project is a proposed floating liquified natural gas export facility for the Naas River area in Nisga'a territory. This facility is designed to meet high environmental standards and create economic opportunities for the Nisga’a and their partners. If approved, it could start up as early as 2027 or 2028, helping to meet the world’s increasing need for cleaner energy.

Trigon

Trigon, a company owned by the the Lax Kw’alaams Band, Metlakatla First Nation, Riverside Holdings, and AMCI Group, is proposing a Green Fuel project for Ridley Island in Prince Rupert. The company aims to transform its existing terminal into a key West Coast export hub for emerging low- to no-carbon fuels.

Trigon’s vision is to export green fuels such as ammonia and hydrogen, which could play a major role in the world’s transition to cleaner energy. The project would leverage existing infrastructure, making it a cost-effective way to realize Canada's first hydrogen-as-ammonia export terminal.

Trigon anticipates reaching a final investment decision in early 2025.

The North Coast’s Role in Canada’s Energy Future

The North Coast is quickly becoming one of the most important energy corridors in the world. These projects help meet global demand for cleaner energy, strengthen Canada’s economy and ensure First Nations have a seat at the table.

In these changing times, energy security matters more than ever. Each of these projects plays a critical role in supplying the world’s LNG needs while helping to backstop Canada’s economy for the long term.

As we move forward, the question isn’t if this region will help shape the future of energy; it’s how we do it together.