BC Clears Way for FortisBC LNG Expansion in Delta

A model of an LNG tanker is seen in this illustration photo. Reuters/Dado Ruvic/IllustrationThe British Columbia government has cleared the way for FortisBC to expand its liquefied natural gas facility in Delta by exempting the project from a permit requirement that would normally apply to public utility expansions.The expansion will increase the facility’s ability to produce liquefied natural gas (LNG), and is expected to create jobs and help reduce emissions by offering an alternative to conventional marine fuels, the province said in a July 24 news release.The province issued an Order in Council that exempts the Phase 1B expansion of the Tilbury LNG Facility from the need to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity under the Utilities Commission Act.The construction phase of the $2 billion expansion is expected to create more than $800 million in GDP and $260 million in tax revenue, as well as generate 1,100 jobs each year over four years, the release says.FortisBC’s Tilbury LNG Facility supplies LNG for local and international shipping vessels, including BC Ferries and Seaspan.The Order in Council also enacted regulatory amendments that establish a framework allowing FortisBC and the Musqueam Indian Band to form an equity partnership for project ownership, the release says.An environmental assessment of Phase 2 of the expansion is also underway, with the government expected to make a decision late in 2026, the release says.The Phase 1B project remains subject to all other applicable regulatory approvals prior to construction, which may start as early as mid-2027, the province said, adding that the expanded facility would be in service as early as 2031.The Canadian Press contributed to this report.