Alberta and Ontario propose a pipeline to carry western Canada’s oil to the east

TORONTO (AP) — Alberta and Ontario proposed a pipeline Monday to carry western Canadian oil east, seeking to reduce Canada’s reliance on U.S. infrastructure and open new export markets, reviving an idea that was abandoned nearly a decade ago.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said the proposed 3,300-kilometer (2,050-mile) pipeline would run from Hardisty, Alberta, to Sarnia, Ontario, carrying up to 500,000 barrels of oil a day with potential for up to 800,000 barrels. She said the corridor eventually could extend to Canada’s Atlantic coast, opening the door to oil exports to Europe.

The United States is by far the largest buyer of Canada’s crude oil, while Alberta holds one of the world’s largest proven oil reserves.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said the pipeline would be a sound investment regardless of whether it is publicly or privately financed. A feasibility study is planned.

“There is still a lot of work ahead of us to deliver,” Ford said.

Heather Exner-Pirot, director of energy, natural resources and environment at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute think tank, said a few factors have made energy security more important for Canada, but in this case the threat is more immediate.

“Michigan’s Governor has been trying for several years to shut down Enbridge’s Line 5, which feeds Canadian oil to Sarnia ...