By Cheryl Jahn

Economic impacts of proposed pipeline could be significant

Jun 26, 2025 | 3:37 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Enbridge is in the pipeline industry, and it is proposing the Sunrise Expansion. The proposed project currently includes the installation of pipeline loops and additional compressor stations.

“Think of it as adding an extra lane on the highway to accommodate more cars,” explains Rawnna Low, Senior Communications Advisor for Enbridge. “So in our case, we are adding our pipeline segment to have more flow of gas, and have more natural gas capacity in our system. So that’s one. And another component of the project is installing an additional compressor unit at our existing compressor station to be located in Azouzetta.”

One of the MLA’s for the region the pipeline will pass through, the MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie, worked in the pipeline industry for years.

“The West Coast pipeline system gets our natural gas from all the way up in northeast B.C. down to the coast,” says Kiel Giddens, MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie. “It’s an important part of the backbone of our economy. And that’s a critical part of our expanding access to clean natural gas for people here in British Columbia.”

Sexual Assault and Harassment

Judge to rule on Canada Post employee's sexual assault and harassment case

9h ago

Weather Alerts

Freezing rain warning issued for Prince George-area, snowfall warning remains for Williston, Pine Pass

13h ago

Spruce Kings 4 Express 3

Lougheed's buzzer-beater lifts Spruce Kings to fifth consecutive win

14h ago

And he has a message for Enbridge: Hire local.

“I want to see those jobs in places like Mackenzie, in places like Prince George, obviously, as well. Let’s see the job fairs, let’s see the local suppliers having those opportunities, because that’s where our economic resiliency is really going to have an impact. And so I really hope that the proponent can do that. I also hope that government can recognize that these projects need to move forward quickly. They can’t be languishing in the permitting backlog while this project is needed.”

And the company assures, should the project be approved, there will be Northern BC economic benefits.

“We’re not only delivering the energy people need every day, but we’re also expecting to hire local workers during the construction period. And in the Fraser-Fort George Regional District, we’re looking at hiring over 1300 workers to work in the different project components,” says Low.

The Project will provide up to 300 million cubic feet per day of additional natural gas transportation.