Groundwork has officially begun on a $4 billion expansion of the West Coast natural gas pipeline, a project designed to boost regional energy capacity and supply emerging liquefied natural gas export hubs.

The Sunrise Expansion Program will add up to 300 million cubic feet per day of natural gas transportation capacity in British Columbia.

Federal Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson marked the start of construction at a ceremony in Prince George alongside local and Indigenous leaders.

"Today we're turning the page from plans to action," Hodgson said, noting that ground broke just three months after federal approval.

The project centers on adding five 42-inch diameter pipeline loops—additional pipe sections built alongside the existing system to increase flow.

These loops will be installed along the southern portion of the West Coast system, spanning from southwest of Chetwynd, B.C., to the Canada-U.S. border in the Fraser Valley.

Constructed with 100 percent Canadian-melted and poured steel supplied by Saskatchewan-based InterPro Pipe + Steel, the pipeline will bolster domestic supplies for homes, schools, and hospitals while fueling industrial projects and LNG facilities, including Woodfibre LNG.

Hodgson noted the project will contribute more than $3 billion to Canada's GDP as the nation expands gas exports to Asian markets.

The project is also expected to create 2,500 jobs—including opportunities for local indigenous communities—and generate $700 million in tax revenue.

Enbridge estimates 1,300 of those jobs will remain local, with more than $2.4 million paid annually in municipal property taxes to the Fraser Fort George Regional District over 35 years.

The influx of jobs offers welcome relief following Canfor's recent announcement that it will permanently close its Northwood pulp mill in Prince George, laying off roughly 300 workers.

Last year, 38 Indigenous communities acquired a 12.5 percent ownership stake in the pipeline system, backed by a federal Indigenous Loan Guarantee.

Lheidli T'enneh Chief Dolleen Logan emphasized that the project reflects lasting benefits achieved through First Nations involvement.

Enbridge Chief Executive Officer Greg Ebel expects construction to wrap up near the end of 2028.