Canada's bold plan to fast-track energy projects and reshape approvals

The Canadian government has unveiled plans to overhaul how major energy projects are reviewed. New proposals would shift authority over interprovincial pipelines and power lines to the Canada Energy Regulator (CER). Officials also aim to cut approval times from years to just months for key developments. Eight years ago, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) became the sole body reviewing national projects. Now, the government wants to reverse that decision. Under the new plan, the CER would take charge of pipelines, transmission lines, and offshore renewable energy schemes.

The changes would also let cabinet decide early whether a pipeline serves the public interest—before the full review finishes. A Crown consultation hub inside the IAAC would improve coordination with Indigenous groups and provinces. Previously, the government had already shortened review times from five years to two, but the latest proposal pushes for just one year.

The public will have 30 days to comment on the plans before any final decisions are made. If approved, the reforms would speed up project approvals and reshape how energy infrastructure is assessed. The CER’s expanded role and faster timelines could affect future pipelines, power lines, and renewable developments across Canada. A consultation period will run for the next month to gather feedback on the proposals.