Project aims to boost energy exports and support Indigenous partnerships
Trigon Pacific Terminals Limited (Trigon) has formally approved a $750-million open-access liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) export facility in Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Announced Tuesday, the project marks a significant milestone in Canada’s bid to strengthen its role as a global energy exporter.
The new terminal, with a capacity of 2.5 million metric tonnes per annum (MTPA), is expected to begin operations in late 2029, pending regulatory and legal approvals.
National and Indigenous collaboration
“This FID is a pivotal moment for Trigon and for Canada’s energy sector,” said Rob Booker, CEO of Trigon. “We’ve come to the table with investment dollars and now we need the federal government to expedite this shovel-ready project.”
The development has received formal support from the Lax Kw’alaams and Metlakatla First Nations, who hold equity in the terminal, a news release highlighted. Leaders from both Nations emphasized the project’s long-term benefits and the inclusive model adopted by Trigon.
“This is about bringing long-term benefits to our people, our land, and future generations,” said Garry Reece, chief councillor of the Lax Kw’alaams Band. Chief Robert Nelson of the Metlakatla First Nation added that Trigon’s shared prosperity model gives Indigenous communities “a strong voice, a stake and a future” in the development.
Strategic importance
The Alberta government has also voiced support, citing its relevance to global trade and reconciliation efforts.
“We have some of the largest reserves of natural gas and natural gas liquids in the world,” said Brian Jean, Alberta’s Minister of Energy and Minerals. “This new Indigenous-backed facility will play a major role in the long-term success of these partnerships.”
The project meets recently updated federal criteria for “projects of national interest,” focusing on economic benefit, Indigenous inclusion, clean growth, and climate goals.
Expanding export capabilities
Trigon’s new terminal aims to relieve pressure on Western Canada’s constrained export routes. The facility will not reallocate existing volume but instead expand capacity for producers seeking access to overseas markets, the news release noted.
The terminal has already seen strong interest from key markets, with off-take discussions underway with partners in Japan, South Korea, and India. Japan increased its LPG imports from Canada to 2 million tonnes in 2024.
“We welcome the expansion of competitive LPG exports from Canada,” said Jumpei Yamamoto of Astomos Energy Corporation.
With board approval secured, Trigon is set to proceed. Key infrastructure, including rail and berth loading facilities, is already in place. Procurement of long-lead items is underway to maintain development momentum.
