LNG Canada and its joint venture partners have reached a final investment decision on a $33-billion Phase 2 expansion of the liquefied natural gas facility in Kitimat, B.C., a move expected to double the facility’s production capacity. Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed the decision Tuesday, calling it a major milestone for Canada’s energy and trade ambitions. The federal government said the investment will make LNG Canada the second-largest facility of its kind in the world and strengthen Canada’s trade ties with markets in Asia and Europe. The expansion is expected to attract $33 billion in private-sector investment and create more than 4,000 direct construction jobs. The project is located on the traditional territory of the Haisla Nation and is being developed in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. The federal government says nearly $5 billion in contracts and procurement have already been awarded to First Nations and local businesses in the region. The Phase 2 expansion will increase LNG Canada’s capacity from about 14 million tonnes to 28 million tonnes per year, according to Reuters. The investment decision also triggered a final investment decision from TC Energy on Coastal GasLink Phase 2, which will expand the existing pipeline system supplying natural gas to the LNG Canada facility. The expansion is expected to create more than 2,000 jobs, with construction scheduled to begin next year. Carney said the investment demonstrates confidence in Canada’s ability to develop major projects and expand its energy exports. “The historic investments in LNG Canada are proof that Canada is building big and bold again,” Carney said. The federal government has made LNG Canada Phase 2 a priority project under its Major Projects Office, which was created to help advance major infrastructure and resource projects. Canada referred the project to the office in September 2025. - @soocanadian