A Matter of Trust: The Role of Communities in Energy Decision-Making. Case Study: Northern Gateway Pipeline, Kitimat and Haisla Nation, British Columbia

Abstract

The Enbridge Northern Gateway project is a proposed twin heavy crude pipeline running from near Edmonton, Alberta, to a new deep-water port terminal in Kitimat, B.C. In May 2016, researchers from the Canada West Foundation visited the communities of Kitimat and Kitamaat Village to interview residents about their confidence in the actions of public authorities and factors that lead to greater satisfaction with the energy infrastructure siting process. Those comments are summarized and captured in this case study. In addition, quantitative polling of Kitimat residents and a secondary research assessment was undertaken by reviewing public records from the regulatory hearings, media articles and the project website.