TAYLOR, B.C - A $400-million natural gas pipeline expansion project southwest of Taylor has received federal regulatory approval, paving the way for construction to begin earlier than expected and bringing hundreds of jobs to the Peace Region.
The Canada Energy Regulator has approved the company’s Birch Grove Program, an expansion of the northern section of the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system.
Following the approval, Westcoast Energy Limited Partnership, an Enbridge affiliate, now plans to begin construction in the first quarter of 2027, earlier than the previously anticipated second-quarter start.
The project will include the installation of approximately 32 kilometres of 36-inch diameter pipeline alongside the existing Westcoast system.
The new pipeline will be located about 16 kilometres southwest of Taylor. Upgrades and modifications are also planned at Compressor Station 01 in Taylor and Compressor Station 16 in Groundbirch.
The company says the project is expected to employ more than 600 workers during peak construction activity.
Enbridge estimates the development will contribute approximately $168 million to British Columbia’s economy while generating additional demand for hotels, restaurants and other local services in the Peace Region.
Once operational, the Birch Grove Program is expected to add 178 million cubic feet per day of natural gas transportation capacity to the Westcoast pipeline system.
The project is targeted to enter service in the third quarter of 2028.
Kaitlyn Beckett, senior project manager and Birch Grove Program lead, said the approval will allow Enbridge to move forward with a project designed to support growing natural gas demand and potential LNG export opportunities on Canada’s west coast.
“We appreciate the timely regulatory approval of the Birch Grove Program and are excited to advance this critical energy infrastructure project,” said Beckett. “Birch Grove will help to advance these ambitions while creating jobs and business opportunities for Canadians.”
The approval comes just days after Enbridge announced the completion of its $1.2-billion Aspen Point Program, another expansion of the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system near Taylor.