Trump Approves Oil Pipeline From Canada To US

U.S. President Donald Trump signed a presidential permit last week authorizing the Bridger Pipeline expansion. ^[1] This project will transport Canadian crude oil into the United States.

Keystone Light

The 650-mile pipeline will run from Phillips County, Montana, to Guernsey, Wyoming, and is expected to cost about $2 billion.

Due to its similarities to the canceled Keystone XL project, it is being called “Keystone Light.” Construction is planned to start in 2027 and finish by late 2028 or early 2029.

The pipeline will initially carry 550,000 barrels of oil per day. Company plans indicate potential tie-ins to the Bakken shale oil field, which could allow volumes to increase later.

Opposition

Several environmental groups strongly oppose the pipeline project. The Montana Environmental Information Center has raised concerns about the risk of oil spills.

They point to a 2015 incident where Bridger Pipeline LLC spilled over 30,000 gallons of oil into the Yellowstone River. WildEarth Guardians, Earthjustice, and Greenpeace Canada have also expressed concerns about environmental impacts.

Exports

Currently, more than 90 percent of Canadian crude oil is exported to the United States. This expansion marks another step in Canada’s efforts to move its oil across the border.

Currently, more than 90 percent of Canadian crude oil is exported to the United States.

However, Canada is also trying to reduce its heavy reliance on the U.S. market. Alberta is actively seeking foreign investment for a new pipeline to the West Coast to reach Asian and Middle Eastern markets.