A massive new west-east energy corridor could soon connect Western Canadian crude directly to domestic refineries in Ontario, following the unveiling of a proposed pipeline route.
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The Government of Ontario has identified a potential 3,300-kilometre route for the Northern Shield Energy Corridor, which would stretch from Hardisty, Alta., to Sarnia, Ont.
The proposal stems from a memorandum of understanding signed last year between Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario to collaborate on interprovincial pipeline infrastructure and expand market access. Following the MOU, Ontario issued a request for proposals for a feasibility study in August 2025.
In a statement released Monday, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said the pipeline would pave the way for barrier-free access to domestic refining markets in Eastern Canada, while helping the province achieve its long-term economic goals.
“A new west-east pipeline would accelerate the Alberta government’s goal to double oil production, moving an additional 500,000 barrels of oil per day and the potential for future expansion up to a total of 800,000 barrels per day,” Smith said.
Proponents say the corridor will not only secure domestic energy supply for Canadian consumers but also enhance access to open-water ports, allowing Canadian energy to reach an expanding list of overseas customers.
With the proposed route now mapped out, the Ontario government is starting work to estimate construction costs, examine commercial development models, and assess related infrastructure opportunities along the corridor.
The tri-province initiative is part of a broader push by Alberta to diversify its energy export options. Smith noted the province is also working alongside the federal government to advance a separate, one-million-barrel-per-day west coast oil pipeline aimed primarily at Asian markets.
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