Minister of Natural Gas Development Rich Coleman has issued the following statement following the National Energy Board’s issuance of a 40-year export licence to Pacific NorthWest LNG:

“British Columbia’s aspiration to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export industry is gaining momentum with Pacific NorthWest LNG’s receiving an extended export licence.

”Export approvals from Canada’s National Energy Board are essential, providing proponents with the assurance they need to secure customer contracts and, ultimately, reach a final investment decision. This extension immediately improves Pacific NorthWest LNG’s long-term certainty and strengthens its competitive positioning in the global market.

“The economic prospects of building this industry are significant and will create thousands of jobs for British Columbians. The provincial government understands Pacific NorthWest LNG is currently reviewing every element of its facility before a major investment decision can be determined. We respect this process and await the result.”

Pacific NorthWest LNG is comprised of PETRONAS, Sinopec, JAPEX, Indian Oil Corporation and PetroleumBRUNEI.

Details about the export approval can be found of the National Energy Board’s website at: https://www.neb-one.gc.ca/index-eng.html