This $1.2 billion expansion of the natural gas pipeline system in northeast B.C., which will create job opportunities for workers involved in the project.

Westcoast Energy Inc. (Westcoast), a subsidiary of Enbridge, is set to begin construction on the Aspen Point Program this April.

The project will support local communities and businesses by boosting demand for hotels, restaurants, and other local services as workers arrive in the area.

The expansion will increase the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system’s capacity by 535 million cubic feet per day to help meet rising demand for natural gas and support west coast LNG exports.

Natural gas plays a vital role in heating homes, hospitals, businesses, and schools, as well as generating electricity and producing countless everyday products.

“The Aspen Point Program not only represents our ongoing commitment to meeting the energy needs of the region, but also our strengthened relationship with local communities and Indigenous groups. From the project’s inception, we have worked closely with them and we remain committed to continue to do so as we move into the construction phase and into operations,” said Dave Challoner, Enbridge Manager of Projects and Aspen Point Program Project Lead.

The Aspen Point Program reflects our dedication to meeting the region’s energy needs while fostering strong relationships with local communities and Indigenous groups.

Since the project's inception, Enbridge has worked closely with them and will continue to do so as they transition into the construction and operational phases.

The project includes expanding natural gas capacity by adding pipeline segments, installing new electric-powered compressor units at two existing stations and a new site.

Building power lines and a switch station to supply electricity to the new units according to the media release.

“At Enbridge, we believe in building strong communities by investing directly in the communities where we live and work. The contractors we hired are required to support this same commitment. This project will create jobs and business opportunities, and we’ve required our contractors to prioritize hiring and sourcing services from Indigenous groups and local communities,” said Challoner.

To complete the project, Westcoast has brought on experienced contractors who will be recruiting local workers.

These contractors include Surerus Murphy Joint Venture, Michels Canada, F&M Installations, and Strike Group.

During peak construction from July 2025 to April 2026, up to 475 workers will be on-site. Over the 17-month project, various roles—including labourers, quality inspectors, electricians, pipefitters, welders, and janitors—will be needed.

Local workers are encouraged to apply directly through the respective contractors, while the hiring process is already underway and will continue throughout the duration of the project.