Ontario is looking for a firm to conduct a feasibility study on the potential of new oil pipelines from Alberta.
They would flow oil to southern Ontario and the James Bay coast.
The project stems from Memorandums of Understanding signed earlier this year between Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan.
“The last few months have shown that Canada can no longer rely on energy infrastructure that lies outside of our borders and can be shut down at a moment’s notice by another country,” states Ontario Premier Doug Ford in a release.
“It’s time for us to build cross-Canada infrastructure within our borders so we can protect our energy security, find new markets for Canadian energy and resources and create new jobs and opportunities for Canadian workers.”
The study will look at potential routes, costs and the involvement of Indigenous communities.
It will also identify the potential of other infrastructure in northern Ontario, such as all-weather roads and new rail lines.
“In the face of unprecedented tariffs from the United States and increasing geopolitical instability, Canadians must work together across governments to build the energy and trade infrastructure we need to unlock new markets domestically and protect jobs,” states Kinga Surma, Minister of Infrastructure.
The feasibility study will also explore the practicality and benefits of a new port outlet on James Bay, Hudson Bay and the Great Lakes, as well as consider the viability of a new or expanded refinery along the pipeline route.
The study will also explore the idea of a petroleum reserve.
The provincial government says Canada is one of the few International Energy Agency member states that does not maintain reserves to access in case of issues such as supply shortages.
