en.Wedoany.com Reported - Canadian Utilities Ltd. announced that the Alberta Utilities Commission has approved the Yellowhead natural gas pipeline project, with construction set to begin immediately. The $2.9 billion project will build a 235-kilometer, 36-inch diameter natural gas pipeline extending from the Peers area in west-central Alberta to the Fort Saskatchewan region, along with a supporting compressor station.

Once operational, the natural gas pipeline is expected to transport over 1.1 billion cubic feet per day. The company stated that all major pipeline and compressor contracts, including supply and material procurement, have been awarded. The project is expected to create approximately 2,000 direct construction jobs and drive downstream economic development, supporting an additional 12,000 construction jobs and 20,000 long-term employment positions.

Jason Sharpe, Chief Operating Officer of ATCO Energy Systems, said: "The Yellowhead natural gas pipeline will help meet Alberta's growing demand for safe, reliable, and affordable energy while supporting the province's continued economic growth." Once completed, downstream investments are expected to contribute approximately $3.9 billion annually to Alberta's GDP. Canadian Utilities Ltd. is a subsidiary of ATCO Ltd..