Construction is underway on the North Coast Transmission Line expansion in British Columbia’s north, a generational energy project that federal and provincial governments say will contribute nearly $10 billion a year to B.C.’s economy. According to the Canadian Press, the infrastructure initiative will link Prince George to Terrace near the North Coast, more than doubling the electricity supply available to coastal industries and powering major upcoming resource developments.
Financing and Government Commitments for the North Coast Transmission Line
The federal and provincial governments committed a combined $3.9 billion to the project following an agreement reached in July, according to the Canadian Press. Additionally, the Canada Infrastructure Bank provided a loan of close to $140 million to BC Hydro to fast-track preconstruction work and expedite the groundbreaking.
Hydro CEO Charlotte Mitha, as reported by CBC News. According to government estimates cited by the Canadian Press, the project will generate about $950 million a year in provincial and municipal revenue.
Economic Impact and Industrial Growth in Northwestern B.C.
The transmission expansion is designed to supply power to major initiatives currently in the works, including the proposed Ksi Lisims liquefied natural gas facility and mining operations in B.C.’s Golden Triangle near the Alaskan border, according to the Canadian Press. Both Ottawa and the B.C. government estimate the project will create close to 10,000 direct, full-time jobs once operational, alongside 1,400 jobs at peak construction.
Federal officials framed the project as essential for regional resource development. According to a federal statement reported by the Canadian Press, the transmission line serves as “the foundation” for northwestern B.C.’s resources, while the B.C. government noted it will help reduce the province’s economic reliance on the United States. Minister Tim Hodgson stated that the project ensures Canada can supply clean electricity for critical minerals and LNG, positioning the country as a trusted global supplier.
First Nations Partnerships and Environmental Concerns
First Nations played a central role in reviewing the project prior to construction. According to CBC News, Chief Dolleen Logan spoke on behalf of the Lheidli T’enneh, Stellat’en, Nazko, Saik’uz and Nadleh Whut’en First Nations, noting that the nations conducted their own review and issued a non-opposition letter after establishing conditions around local hiring and environmental rehabilitation.
At the same time, environmental groups have raised concerns regarding emissions. According to calculations by CBC News, emissions from the Ksi Lisims LNG project could increase B.C.’s annual greenhouse gas emissions by six to eight per cent. In response, Minister Hodgson argued that low-carbon LNG provides necessary government revenues to fund public services such as health care, child care, and public safety.
Did you know?
The North Coast Transmission Line expansion was referred to the federal Major Projects Office in November 2025 for possible fast-tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What regions does the North Coast Transmission Line connect?
The transmission line expansion links Prince George to Terrace near the North Coast, with its first phase consisting of a 165-kilometre stretch from Prince George to near Fraser Lake, according to the Canadian Press.
Which industrial projects will the transmission line power?
According to the Canadian Press, the project will power major initiatives including the Ksi Lisims liquefied natural gas facility and mining operations in B.C.’s Golden Triangle near the Alaskan border.
How many jobs is the project expected to create?
Government estimates cited by the Canadian Press indicate the project will create close to 10,000 direct, full-time jobs once operational, plus 1,400 jobs during peak construction.
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