CHETWYND, B.C. – Construction on the Sunrise Expansion Program, a major upgrade to the southern portion of the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system, could begin as early as July, bringing employment opportunities and economic benefits to the Peace Region.
The Sunrise Expansion Program is designed to meet growing demand for natural gas by increasing the capacity of the existing pipeline system. The project includes the installation of new pipeline segments and additional compression facilities at existing compressor stations throughout British Columbia.
Representatives for the Sunrise Expansion Program hosted a community coffee chat in Chetwynd on May 26, 2026 to help inform residents about the project. The event provided local residents, businesses and community stakeholders the opportunity to learn more about the project, ask questions and discuss potential employment and business opportunities related to the development.
Three of the four new compressor units will be electric-powered as part of the project, requiring new power lines. Preparatory activities such as site setup and transport of equipment and construction materials may occur prior to the start of major construction activities.
Work in the Peace River Regional District will focus on the installation of a natural gas-powered compressor unit at Compressor Station 2B (CS-2B), north of Azouzetta Lake, approximately 70 kilometres southwest of Chetwynd. A site for a temporary workforce accommodation camp will be developed in the Pine Pass area to house workers who will be involved in the project.
“Construction of the project will generate 2,500 jobs across BC and more than 100 workers will be employed at peak construction at CS-2B alone,” project officials say.
Local businesses such as restaurants, accommodations and service providers are expected to benefit from the influx of workers. It is also expected to generate tax revenues for provincial, regional and municipal governments, to support public services such as schools, hospitals, roads and other infrastructure.
Local workers, contractors, businesses and accommodation providers interested in participating in the project are invited to complete the online Community Interest Form for the project.
Construction is scheduled to continue through 2028 with the Sunrise Expansion Program scheduled to be complete by the end of that year. The expansion will also add another 300 million cubic feet per day of natural gas transportation capacity to the Westcoast pipeline system once in service.
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