It's Political with Althia Raj Did Ottawa Just Get Hosed by Alberta?
Nov 28, 2025
Corey Hogan, a Liberal MP and Parliamentary Secretary, discusses the federal-Alberta memorandum on pipeline development, framing it as a win for environmental progress despite widespread backlash. Andrew Leach, an economics professor, analyzes the necessity and market challenges of new pipelines. Janetta McKenzie from the Pembina Institute raises concerns over emissions impacts, while Dale Beugin of the Canadian Climate Institute critiques the effectiveness of carbon pricing. Together, they explore the complex interplay of economic interests, environmental imperatives, and Indigenous perspectives.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
MOU Sparks Major Political Backlash
- The federal MOU pledges support for a new West Coast pipeline tied to carbon capture and regulatory changes.
- That deal immediately provoked resignations, Indigenous and provincial backlash, and climate group concern.
Market Reality Undermines Urgent Pipeline Case
- Experts say Canada has significant oil reserves but existing export capacity is near full and TMX still has some spare capacity.
- Current market and investment signals make it unclear whether producers will fund a wholly new pipeline now.
Big Pipeline Risk Meets Falling Demand
- New pipelines should be privately funded and face long build times and high costs, making them risky amid stagnating global oil demand.
- If demand flattens due to EVs, pipelines built now risk becoming stranded expensive assets.