Hope and tension

Fast-Track plan sparks hope and tension for B.C. LNG project

Nov 13, 2025 | 3:49 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Prime Minister Mark Carney announced today that the LNG project in northern British Columbia and the North Coast Transmission Line are being considered for fast-track federal approval. Local officials say these projects could bring significant economic benefits to the region.

The proposed LNG facility, situated in Nisga’a Nation territory, will be supported by two floating platforms and has the capacity to export up to 12 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas annually. The supplies will be brought in from northern B.C. and shipped to markets in Asia. This announcement brings positive news for Prince George.

“ We welcome the federal direct investment to this region. And we have always been recognized by the federal government as the gateway to the Pacific.”

Mayor Simon Yu

City of Prince George

The LNG project would be powered by the 450-kilometre, $6-billion North Coast Transmission Line, supported by a $140-million loan from the Canada Infrastructure Bank. BC Conservative MLA Keil Giddons says the provincial government should also invest to keep up with this industrial growth.

“We also have to see the provincial government match that, with results. Right now, the fast tracking of LNG projects is actually not included in provincial fast-tracking bills. We need to see that actually happen. Otherwise, this federal announcement is not going to make any difference.”

Kiel Giddens

MLA, Prince George-Mackenzie

Developers hope construction can begin this year, with operations targeted for 2028 or 2029. For Mayor Simon Yu, work needs to be done now to prepare for the influx of people expected to come to the region.

“We need to make sure public safety is number one. We’ve got to build up our downtown. We’ve got to build up our infrastructure. More housing to, welcome all the workers and hopefully they’ll stay and to to raise their family here.”

Mayor Simon Yu

City of Prince George

The Nisga’a Nation supports the project, but most nearby First Nations and environmental groups oppose it. Two Nations are suing the government over concerns about ecological impacts and unresolved land title claims.

Email: Dave.Branco@pattisonmedia.com

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