PCA Welcomes Canada–Alberta Energy Agreement

To view this media statement as a PDF, click here.

The Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA), whose members build major capital and infrastructure projects across Canada, welcomed today’s Canada–Alberta Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on major energy and infrastructure projects, calling it a promising step toward getting critical “nation-building” projects built – provided the work is procured fairly and competitively.

 The agreement sets a framework for a potential new West Coast pipeline, large-scale carbon capture (CCUS), and power-grid investments, alongside stronger industrial emissions pricing and methane-reduction commitments.

 “This agreement has the potential to reset, recharge, and unlock Canada’s huge energy potential,” said Paul de Jong, President of PCA. “We are hopeful it signals the end of an era of frustrating and costly regulatory hurdles and opposition.”

PCA welcomes commitments to streamline approvals through the federal Major Projects Office and reduce duplication in impact assessments, noting that predictable timelines are essential to attracting investment. 

PCA believes that if the federal government is serious about fast tracking critical projects like this, then the tendering process must be fair and open, so that Canadians know the best-qualified contractors and workers are rebuilding Canada.

 “Our members have a strong track record of delivering complex, schedule-driven projects right across Canada,” de Jong said. “They’re ready to build pipelines, CCUS facilities and the infrastructure needed to propel Canada’s economic independence. All our members ask, is for the opportunity to compete.”

 PCA believes that Indigenous partnership and ownership will be critical to the success and durability of any new pipeline and related infrastructure.

 “Indigenous communities must be at the table as partners and owners,” de Jong added. “Open, transparent procurement and genuine Indigenous participation go hand in hand.”

 PCA will be engaging with both governments as the details of the MOU are worked out, and will continue to advocate for open, competitive tendering on all major projects.