CALGARY, ALBERTA (RFD NEWS) — A new proposal to build a pipeline across Canada is gaining attention as government leaders look to expand energy infrastructure and diversify export opportunities.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss the proposed project, the challenges it faces, and why infrastructure development remains important to agriculture.
In his interview with RFD News, Haney said the proposal came as a surprise to many observers, as pipeline discussions in Canada have often focused on projects moving Alberta energy west toward the coast or previous proposals such as Energy East. The latest proposal would move oil from Alberta to Ontario, with a potential capacity of about 500,000 barrels per day.
He said the project is part of a broader push by Canadian governments to strengthen domestic infrastructure and reduce reliance on a single energy market, particularly as Canada looks to diversify its energy exports.
Haney noted that public attitudes toward pipelines have also shifted in recent years, with greater support now for major energy infrastructure projects. He pointed to support from leaders in Alberta and Saskatchewan, while noting that several key questions remain unanswered.
One of the biggest hurdles, Haney said, is finding a private-sector company willing to commit to building the pipeline. He added that there are currently no firm cost estimates, and projects of this scale could require tens of billions of dollars in investment.
Other challenges include regulatory approvals, Indigenous consultation and participation, and determining the route through provinces such as Manitoba.
While the proposal is politically significant, Haney said there is still a long road between announcing an idea and seeing construction begin.
From agriculture’s perspective, Haney said farmers should pay attention to energy infrastructure because agriculture depends heavily on reliable and affordable energy supplies. Fuel, fertilizer production, and other crop inputs all rely on energy, meaning expanded infrastructure could have downstream impacts for producers.
He added that the discussion also reflects a broader conversation about Canada’s ability to build critical infrastructure, saying that a shift toward fewer barriers and more investment could benefit rural communities and industries like agriculture.
Haney said producers will continue watching whether the pipeline proposal moves beyond the announcement stage and toward a viable construction plan.
