Hub Podcasts B.C. premier's $10B distraction from the real energy debate.
Jan 16, 2026
Keerit Jutla, a lawyer and former BC government advisor, now CEO of Jutla Strategies, dives into B.C. Premier David Eby's controversial refinery proposal. He argues that refineries cannot replace pipelines and critiques the economic viability of such projects. Jutla questions B.C.'s inconsistent energy policies and emphasizes the necessity of honest discussions about transport safety. He also highlights how current political attitudes send mixed signals to investors and contrasts the province's LNG support with its anti-oil stance.
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Refinery Doesn’t Replace Pipelines
- A refinery is not a substitute for a pipeline because crude still must be transported to the refinery.
- Pipelines remain the safest and most economical way to move oil from Alberta to the coast, according to Keerit Jutla.
Have Fact-Based Energy Conversations
- Discuss energy transportation using objective facts and avoid fearmongering.
- Be transparent about tanker safety, risks, and modern technology to have an honest public debate, Keerit Jutla suggests.
Refinery Price And Timeline Problem
- A new refinery would cost upwards of $10 billion and take over a decade to come online.
- That long timeline and cost make taxpayer-funded refinery builds politically and economically risky, says Keerit Jutla.