A British Columbia firm is part of a collaboration that has secured a significant contract for the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission project. The Surerus Murphy Joint Venture, consisting of the Nisga’a Nation and Western LNG, will construct the initial section of the new pipeline from northeastern B.C. to Ksi Lisims LNG on the north coast. With a track record of involvement in projects like Coastal GasLink and TransMountain expansion, as well as the ongoing construction of the Eagle Mountain pipeline for Woodfibre LNG, Surerus Murphy was selected based on its expertise and local experience in developing major infrastructure in British Columbia.
According to Eva Clayton, president of Nisga’a Lisims Government, the nation is dedicated to utilizing Canadian businesses and local firms for the project. Contractors will need to establish an Indigenous participation plan for recruitment and contracting, ensuring that benefits remain within the province. Swiss company Allseas has been tasked with laying the subsea pipeline at the project’s terminus, while Surerus Murphy will handle the construction of approximately 193 kilometers of pipeline between Chetwynd and Mackenzie, operating near Highway 97 before veering towards the coast.
Sean Surerus, president of Surerus Pipeline, expressed excitement about the venture, emphasizing its positive implications for the local economy and the province. He highlighted the company’s familiarity with the challenging terrain and its preparedness to handle construction impacts in the rugged landscape, citing a comprehensive mitigation strategy for various geographical features.
Western LNG’s spokesperson, Rebecca Scott, mentioned that a final investment decision for the Ksi Lisims project is anticipated by the year’s end. The proposed $30 billion export facility has secured buyers for half of its annual output of 12 million tonnes, with more agreements and construction updates on the horizon. Scott emphasized the community’s anticipation for the project and the opportunities it will bring, underscoring the commitment to local involvement and benefits in the northern region.
If a favorable final investment decision is reached, construction on the facility and pipeline is slated to commence in early 2027.