U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that he wants the Keystone XL pipeline project to be revived, promising swift regulatory approvals for any company willing to take on the project. In a social media post last Monday (24), he encouraged the former developer to reconsider, emphasizing that his administration would provide an expedited approval process and an almost immediate start. However, Trump did not specify a company in his post, and the original developer, now operating under a different name, has indicated that it has moved on from the controversial project.
South Bow Energy, which was spun off from TC Energy’s oil pipeline business last year, reiterated that it no longer has plans for Keystone XL. A company spokesperson affirmed that they are now focusing on other opportunities to increase Canadian oil supplies to meet market demands. The pipeline, initially proposed in 2008 to transport crude oil from Canada to U.S. refineries, faced years of opposition from environmental groups and legal challenges before former President Joe Biden revoked its permit in 2021. Despite Trump’s renewed push for its construction, the project’s future remains uncertain.
Trump’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions in Canada and the U.S. While Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed support for reviving the project, she also urged Trump to reconsider his proposed 10% tariff on Canadian crude oil, which is set to take effect in March. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe echoed similar sentiments, advocating for increased North American energy cooperation without tariffs.
By João Fernando
