Trans Mountain prepares for possible expansion as its pipeline nears full capacity

Trans Mountain nears full capacity

Trans Mountain officials reported that the pipeline connecting Alberta to British Columbia, capable of transporting 890,000 barrels of oil per day, has been rapidly filling since its capacity expansion earlier this year.

Company considers future expansion

Executives noted that growing demand from Canadian producers might soon require further expansion. The current system, which became fully operational in spring, has already attracted strong interest from shippers seeking space for crude oil deliveries to West Coast terminals.

"We’re operating very close to full capacity, and that’s a positive sign for producers and the Canadian economy," said a company representative.

Economic and regulatory outlook

Industry analysts suggest the company will study capacity options over the coming year, balancing economic opportunity with environmental and regulatory conditions. Any new expansion would likely require federal review, given the project’s previous environmental scrutiny.

Background of the pipeline project

The Trans Mountain expansion project tripled the pipeline’s capacity, improving export access to Pacific markets. The Crown corporation’s investment aimed to reduce Canada’s reliance on U.S. buyers and allow producers to reach Asian refineries more competitively.

"It’s a critical link between Alberta’s energy sector and global markets," said an energy analyst from Calgary.

Summary

The Trans Mountain pipeline has reached nearly full utilization within months of opening, prompting discussions about potential new capacity to meet sustained market demand.

Author’s summary: The Trans Mountain pipeline, already near its 890,000-barrel limit, is driving talks of further expansion to meet growing crude export demand from Canada’s producers.

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Global News on MSN Global News on MSN — 2025-11-29

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