A British Columbia-based company is part of a partnership that successfully secured a significant contract for the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission project. The Surerus Murphy Joint Venture, involving the Nisga’a Nation and Western LNG, will construct the initial section of the new pipeline connecting northeastern B.C. to Ksi Lisims LNG on the northern coast.
Having previously completed segments of the Coastal GasLink and TransMountain expansion projects, the joint venture is currently engaged in constructing the Eagle Mountain pipeline for Woodfibre LNG. The decision to select Surerus Murphy was influenced by its track record and expertise in building major infrastructure projects in British Columbia.
According to Eva Clayton, president of Nisga’a Lisims Government, the nation is dedicated to utilizing Canadian businesses and local firms in the project’s construction. Contractors must establish an Indigenous participation plan for recruitment and subcontracting to ensure local benefits are maximized.
Swiss company Allseas has been tasked with laying the subsea pipeline at the project’s terminus. Surerus Murphy will undertake the construction of approximately 193 kilometers of pipeline between Chetwynd and Mackenzie, operating close to Highway 97 before veering towards the coast.
Sean Surerus, president of Surerus Pipeline and one of the partners in the joint venture, emphasized the company’s familiarity with the challenging terrain, highlighting their ability to effectively manage construction challenges in the rugged landscape. He expressed confidence in their preparedness for the project’s unique features and emphasized their local expertise.
The final investment decision for the Ksi Lisims project is anticipated to be made by the year’s end, as per Rebecca Scott, a spokesperson for Western LNG. With half of its 12-million tonne annual output already allocated to buyers, the $30-billion export facility is poised for further deals and construction announcements.
Scott underscored the community’s anticipation for the project, emphasizing the opportunities it would bring. By engaging a local company with substantial experience and relationships, Western LNG aims to demonstrate its commitment to retaining benefits within the region.
A positive final investment decision would pave the way for construction commencement on the facility and pipeline in early 2027.