FortisBC has received approval from the Province of British Columbia to move forward with the Phase 1B expansion of its Tilbury liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility, marking an important milestone for a project that will support economic growth, strengthen Indigenous partnerships, and provide lower-emission marine fueling options on Canada's West Coast. 

The approval allows FortisBC to advance plans for an expansion expected to represent approximately $2 billion in regulated investment. The project is designed to increase LNG production capacity at the existing Tilbury facility in Delta, B.C., helping meet growing demand for LNG marine fueling services in the Port of Vancouver and along the western coast of North America. 

"Today's milestone is a reflection of what is possible when Indigenous communities, government, and industry work together toward shared goals for economic growth, affordability, and emissions reduction," said David Hutchens, President and CEO of Fortis Inc. 

A key component of the project is the opportunity for Musqueam to become an equity partner in the project, advancing economic reconciliation while creating long-term benefits for the community. The opportunity reflects Fortis' longstanding commitment to working alongside Indigenous communities and creating opportunities for shared prosperity. 

For more than 50 years, the Tilbury facility has played an important role in British Columbia's energy system. Today, it supplies LNG as a marine fuel for customers including BC Ferries and Seaspan Ferries. The expansion will increase production capacity to help meet growing demand as the marine sector transitions to lower-emission fuel alternatives. 

The project is expected to deliver significant economic benefits for British Columbia. During construction, it is anticipated to contribute more than $800 million to provincial GDP and support approximately 1,100 jobs annually over a four-year construction period. 

"We are proud to advance our partnership with Musqueam and the shared vision we are building together for the region," said Roger Dall’Antonia, President and CEO of FortisBC. "This announcement marks a major milestone, not only for FortisBC, but for British Columbia's economy, the marine fueling sector, and our shared efforts to reduce emissions and improve air quality.” 

The project remains subject to additional regulatory approvals and permitting requirements. Construction could begin as early as 2027, with the facility expected to be in service as early as 2031.