Toronto, Ontario – The Ontario government has launched a feasibility study to explore the development of a new Canadian East-West pipeline and energy corridor, a nation-building project that could reshape the country’s energy landscape. The study will assess the economic, environmental, and logistical benefits of building new pipelines made with Canadian steel to transport Western Canadian oil and gas to southern Ontario refineries and ports on James Bay, Hudson Bay, and the Great Lakes.
Premier Doug Ford said the project will strengthen the country’s self-reliance and create jobs while protecting Ontario’s energy security.
“This nation-building pipeline and energy corridor will unite our country and help unlock new markets for Canada’s energy resources,” said Ford. “It will reduce our dependence on the United States while creating new jobs and opportunities for Canadian workers from coast to coast to coast.”
The initiative comes as part of Ontario’s broader plan to protect the province’s economy amid ongoing trade tensions and tariffs from the U.S., positioning Ontario as a leader in domestic energy infrastructure development.
We’re taking the next step toward construction of a new East-West energy corridor and pipeline, built by Canadian workers with Canadian steel.
This corridor will connect Western Canadian oil and gas to refineries and ports in Ontario, so we can protect Canadian workers by…
— Doug Ford (@fordnation) October 30, 2025
Strengthening Canada’s Energy Security
The proposed corridor would ensure reliable, uninterrupted energy supply for homes and industries across the country, while anchoring the pipeline’s construction in Canadian manufacturing and labour.
“Access to affordable, secure, and Canadian-made energy is vital to protecting Ontario’s workers and families,” said Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure. “This transformative project would connect provinces, unlock new export markets, and ensure Ontario’s homes and businesses are powered by secure, Canadian-made energy.”
The feasibility study, expected to be completed in 2026, will provide route options, cost analysis, and evaluate complementary projects — including all-season roads to the Ring of Fire, mineral export facilities, and potential petroleum reserve infrastructure in Northern Ontario.
Provincial Collaboration Driving Energy Independence
Ontario is partnering with Alberta and Saskatchewan to advance the corridor, building on a Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year that commits the provinces to joint infrastructure development, energy security, and resource export initiatives.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith praised Ontario’s leadership and the interprovincial cooperation driving the project.
“Alberta, Ontario, and Saskatchewan are proving what’s possible when provinces lead and stand together,” said Smith. “This corridor will stand up for our energy sector, grow our economy, and ensure Canadians prosper from our world-class resources.”
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said the corridor represents a key step in transforming Canada into a global energy superpower.
“An East-West energy corridor is vital for our province and for all Canadians,” said Moe. “New infrastructure will strengthen energy security and deliver responsibly produced Canadian energy to new markets.”
Indigenous Partnerships and Economic Reconciliation
Ontario confirmed it will honour its duty to consult Indigenous communities as part of the project planning process, emphasizing Indigenous equity participation as a cornerstone of its approach.
Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation, said First Nations involvement will be central to the corridor’s success.
“Central to nation-building projects are First Nations-led economic growth and opportunities, which we will continue to support,” said Rickford.
Energy for Generations: A Strategic Vision
The study will be led by a consortium of firms, including GHD Limited, Ernst & Young LLP (EY Canada), Mokwateh, AtkinsRéalis Group Inc., Wood PLC, and Turner & Townsend Limited, with Infrastructure Ontario acting as commercial advisor.
Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Stephen Lecce, said the corridor will position Canada for long-term energy independence.
“With new energy infrastructure, we can unlock our potential as an energy superpower,” said Lecce. “This corridor will strengthen Canadian energy independence, keep costs down for families, and ensure Canadian interests always prevail.”
George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth, added that the project will also enhance Northern Ontario’s role as a trade and resource hub.
“These proposed pipelines and port facilities would serve as a gateway to our northern seas, reducing reliance on the U.S. while boosting Ontario’s industrial growth,” said Pirie.
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