Today’s announcement that Nisku-based contractor Michels Canada will construct the Alberta portion of the Keystone XL pipeline has been applauded by that province’s premier as confirmation of thousands of new jobs to fuel the provincial economy within weeks.
“After several months of bleak economic news, it’s invigorating to see Alberta’s investment in Keystone XL begin to pay off with confirmation of the imminent hiring of 1,000 construction workers each year over the next two years,” says Alberta Premier Jason Kenney. “This will spur thousands more jobs and economic activity in associated trades, retail and hospitality services in communities along the route when construction begins this summer. It’s another significant step in fulfilling our commitment to Albertans to protect the value of the province’s energy resources and attract new investment.”
Overall, Keystone XL will support 17,000 Canadian workers, contribute $2.4 billion to Canada’s GDP and will generate an estimated $30 billion in future revenues.
“Once operational, the TC Energy project will carry 830,000 barrels per day of oil to U.S. Gulf Coast refineries, where Western Canadian crude is in high demand.
“We have been working closely with our U.S. partners at the state and federal level to strengthen North American energy security and independence. The overwhelming consensus is projects such as Keystone XL will play a vital role in the post-pandemic economic recovery of both our countries,” says Kenney.
Construction of the Alberta portion of the pipeline will begin this summer near Oyen and finish near Hardisty in the spring of 2022.
