Alberta's Pipeline Future Hinges on Carbon Capture Technology

Alberta's potential new pipeline to the West Coast is contingent upon the oil and gas industry implementing carbon capture systems to ensure the bitumen transported is low-emission. This agreement, known as the 'grand bargain,' was introduced by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney in November 2025. The Pathways Alliance, a coalition of major oilsands companies, is tasked with developing the necessary carbon capture infrastructure. Current carbon capture projects in Canada have struggled to meet emission reduction targets, capturing only a fraction of the emissions produced. The Pathways project aims to reduce emissions by 10 to 12 megatonnes annually by 2030, but its success relies on private sector investment and Indigenous involvement.

Key Details: • The new pipeline proposal requires successful carbon capture implementation. • Pathways Alliance aims for a net reduction of 10-12 megatonnes of emissions by 2030. • Existing Canadian carbon capture projects stored approximately 5 megatonnes in 2023. • Private sector must acquire approvals and build the pipeline infrastructure.