On April 29, 2026, Premier David Eby and the B.C. government significantly expanded the “Look West” strategy, a cornerstone of provincial economic policy. Designed to accelerate major projects and secure $200 billion in private-sector investment by 2035, the strategy aims to provide stability amidst global economic volatility through the development of responsible resource exports. The government announced the addition of 17 new major projects to its priority list, nearly doubling the previous count and signaling a move toward a more independent provincial economy.
Powering the North – The 2026 Priority Expansion
The expanded list focuses heavily on critical minerals, renewable energy, and natural gas infrastructure—sectors where the Skeena and surrounding northern regions possess significant competitive advantages. The 17 new projects represent approximately $88 billion in potential investment over the next three years.
To support this growth, the “Look West” plan includes a commitment of $241 million over three years to double trades training funding, ensuring residents of northern communities can fill the tens of thousands of high-paying jobs expected to be created.
| Project Name | Sector | Regional Significance |
|---|---|---|
| KSM Mine | Mining | World-class gold and copper project near Smithers. |
| Ksi Lisims LNG | Energy | Nation-building project involving Nisga’a partnership. |
| LNG Canada Phase 2 | Energy | Potential largest private investment in Canadian history. |
| Red Mountain Mine | Mining | Critical minerals project in the northwest. |
| Eskay Creek | Mining | Revitalization of a high-grade gold-silver site. |
| Baptiste Nickel Mine | Mining | Strategic battery metal supply. |
| North Coast Transmission Line | Utilities | 2,200 MW power project from Prince George to Terrace. |
A major highlight is the Blackwater Gold and Silver Mine’s Phase 2 expansion, a $1.44-billion investment. The project is anticipated to generate 1,500 construction jobs and 1,200 permanent operational positions, contributing an estimated $2 billion in mineral tax revenue to the province.
Cedar LNG – A Model for Regional Integration
While other projects face judicial delays, the Cedar LNG project—a partnership between the Haisla Nation and Pembina Pipeline Corporation—serves as a model for successful Indigenous ownership.
In late April 2026, a visible milestone was reached in Terrace with the assembly of a 60-metre prefabricated pipeline bridge span at the Skeena Sawmills yard. Fabricated by Monster Kitsumkalum, the structure is designed to carry the natural gas pipeline across Moore Creek. This crossing is technically significant as the only aerial span along the entire route, necessitated by terrain too steep for conventional trenching.
Current Cedar LNG Status (as of April 30, 2026):
- Pipeline: Approximately 80% complete; on track for late 2026 completion.
- Marine Terminal (Kitimat): 10% complete.
- FLNG Facility (South Korea): Approximately 35% complete.
The floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility is expected to arrive in Kitimat in 2028, with operations slated to begin later that year. Powered by clean electricity from BC Hydro, Cedar LNG aligns with the province’s goal of producing some of the lowest-carbon LNG in the world.
