Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged to introduce legislation aimed at slashing federal approval times for major energy infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on fast-tracking pipeline and transmission line developments.

A government discussion paper released Friday outlines the proposed changes, which seek to expand ministerial powers and streamline the permitting process across multiple federal statutes. 

The overarching goal of the legislation is to enforce a strict one-year limit on federal regulatory reviews for all major projects, including those designated in the national interest or referred to the Major Projects Office.

Under the current system, energy companies routinely face prolonged bureaucratic delays. 

According to the government’s discussion paper, it has historically taken upward of five years for the federal government to issue the final project decisions required to begin pipeline construction.

The proposed framework establishes a dual-timeline structure to accelerate development, with energy firms being granted one year to submit all required environmental studies and technical data. However, they may request extensions for complex projects. 

Once a company's information package is deemed complete, federal decision-making bodies will be legally mandated to render a final decision within 12 months.

Supporters of the reform argue that the current multi-year timeline stifles economic growth and deters critical investment in the nation's energy sector. 

By formalizing the one-year target into law, the government aims to provide regulatory certainty for pipeline operators and utility providers.

However, the rapid timeline could compress the window for environmental scrutiny and community consultation. 

In July 2025, Canada’s Senate approved a bill designed to fast-track approvals for natural resources and critical infrastructure projects, including pipelines.

Meanwhile, the federal government has opened a brief 30-day window for provinces, territories, Indigenous Peoples, and the general public to submit formal comments on the proposed legislative changes before the bill is officially introduced in Parliament.