Trans Mountain is exploring a series of targeted upgrades to the recently expanded pipeline system. These upgrades are aimed at optimizing performance and increasing the capacity of the existing system.
These proposed improvements, referred to as the Mainline Optimization Project, could increase throughput by up to approximately 360,000 barrels per day—strengthening Canada’s ability to move energy efficiently and competitively to global markets.
Before any potential optimization work can proceed, Trans Mountain is committed to a comprehensive process of engagement and consultation with all potentially impacted parties.
This includes:
Early engagement with Indigenous groups, respecting rights, interests, and protocols, and continuing collaboration with communities to build meaningful partnerships.
Direct outreach to landowners, municipalities, and local communities that may be near proposed facilities, so they can understand what’s being considered and provide input early in the planning process.
Consultation with regulators and government agencies to ensure all applicable requirements are met or exceeded.
Transparent and accessible communication through information sessions, online tools, and one-on-one conversations, tailored to the needs of each community or group
Any proposal would follow the Canada Energy Regulator’s (CER) established regulatory process, which includes formal opportunities for public input. We know that early, respectful dialogue leads to better outcomes—and we are committed to listening and responding in a way that reflects the priorities and concerns of those potentially affected.
The Trans Mountain Expansion Project significantly increased Canada’s ability to access global markets. The optimization opportunities being considered would further enhance the efficiency of the Trans Mountain pipeline system.
By making targeted, small-scale improvements – such as adding pump stations, a short section of pipeline, and using drag reducing agents (DRA) – Trans Mountain could incrementally increase throughput on its mainline by up to 360,000 barrels per day. This would allow more Canadian product to reach consumers without building a completely new pipeline, helping to improve returns to taxpayers and producers, generate additional government revenues, and make Canadian energy more competitive internationally.
We are still in the early stages of identifying and investigating potential optimization opportunities for the expanded pipeline system. While specific cost estimates are not yet confirmed, the initiatives we’re considering are expected to be cost-effective, and require a relatively low level of investment. These optimization efforts aim to deliver increased throughput and improved efficiency within the current regulatory regime over the next four to five years, while also maximizing value for Canadians.
We will evaluate the most efficient way to finance these initiatives; this may include self-funding or obtaining capital from third parties.
As a company owned by the Canadian taxpayer, Trans Mountain is deeply committed to responsibly managing resources and advancing all projects with careful attention to timelines and financial accountability.
Investments in the optimization proposals are aimed at increasing efficiency and throughput. As with all investments, Trans Mountain will fund the optimization projects based on securing appropriate commercial contracts or expected revenue gains to ensure we earn an adequate return on investment.
While we are still in the early stages of planning, the optimization work—if approved—could be executed over approximately four to five years. That timeline includes engagement with Indigenous groups and stakeholders, detailed design, regulatory reviews, and construction.
Safety is, and will always be, Trans Mountain’s top priority. Any proposed optimization work – including the use of Drag Reducing Agents, upgrading pump stations, or replacing pipe – would be designed and constructed to the highest engineering, safety, and environmental standards.
Some of the strategies we employ to manage and reduce risk include:
Strict regulatory oversight: Any project would be subject to rigorous review by the Canada Energy Regulator (CER), which assesses safety, integrity, and environmental protection.
Modern materials and technology: Any new or replacement infrastructure would use state-of-the-art design, materials, and monitoring systems.
24/7 system monitoring: Our pipeline is monitored around the clock from our Edmonton control centers, with real-time data and automated safety systems.
Emergency response readiness: We maintain robust spill prevention and response plans, including regular training and drills with local communities, Indigenous groups, and response partners.
Proven operational track record: Trans Mountain has decades of experience safely operating pipeline systems, and we have continuously improved our systems and protocols over time.
Increasing efficiency and capacity doesn’t mean taking shortcuts. It means doing more with the infrastructure we already have, while maintaining or enhancing our safety performance.
We understand that hearing about a potential new project can raise questions, especially if you’ve been affected by past work. Right now, the optimization project is in the early, exploratory stage, and no formal application has been filed with regulators.
To learn more and stay informed as things progress, you can:
Visit our website, where updates and background information will be posted as planning advances.
Subscribe to our email updates to receive notifications about community meetings, regulatory filings, and project news. (link TBD)
Contact us at [email protected] or 1.866.514.6700. They are available to answer your questions and provide more details specific to your community.
Attend future information sessions, which we will host as part of our commitment to early and transparent engagement.
We’re committed to sharing information clearly and early, and to making sure your questions and concerns are heard throughout the process.
Yes, Drag Reducing Agent (DRA) is a proven and safe fluid used in the oil pipeline industry that Trans Mountain has used successfully in the past. It is a commonly used additive in pipelines across the world that reduces friction in the line, allowing for increased flow efficiency. DRA does not compromise the integrity or safety of the pipeline system.
Trans Mountain is committed to respectful, meaningful, and ongoing engagement with Indigenous communities.
If the proposed optimization work proceeds, Indigenous groups will be engaged early and directly, well before any regulatory application is filed. This includes:
Two-way dialogue: We will listen carefully to Indigenous concerns, priorities, and rights, and adjust our planning where appropriate to address them.
Transparency and collaboration: We aim to share clear, timely information and work in partnership—not just consult—throughout the life of the project.
Cultural and environmental respect: We recognize the deep connection Indigenous groups have to their lands and waters. Traditional knowledge and Indigenous-led environmental studies can play a key role in project planning and decision-making.
Capacity and support: Trans Mountain offers capacity funding and resources to help communities meaningfully participate in the review and planning process.
Our work with Indigenous groups during the Trans Mountain Expansion Project helped set new standards for engagement and collaboration. We intend to build on that foundation—because true engagement is not a checkbox; it’s a commitment to listening, learning, and working together for shared outcomes.
