TC Energy Corp. is planning to meet with representatives of Indigenous communities in Western Canada to discuss selling them a stake in its vast natural gas pipeline network, sources familiar with the matter told the Edmonton Journal. 

The potential deal, involving the Nova Gas Transmission Ltd. (NGTL) system, could see ownership transferred to Indigenous groups, marking a significant shift in the resource sector's relationship with traditional land stewards. 

According to the report, a meeting to discuss the proposal is scheduled for January 15th in Edmonton, with invited representatives from 72 communities across Alberta and British Columbia.

"We want to create mutually beneficial partnerships with Indigenous communities," TC Energy told the news outlet in an emailed statement, acknowledging the potential ownership discussions but declining to provide further details. 

The Calgary-based energy giant has recently been divesting assets to manage debt, including a $3.9 billion (C$5.2 billion) sale of a 40% stake in two U.S. natural gas pipelines last year.

The NGTL system is a critical artery for North American energy, transporting roughly one-tenth of the continent's natural gas supply across 24,600 kilometers from the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin to domestic and export markets. 

Alkthough the pipeline company has faced multiple backlashes in the past, Including Indigenous communities as equity holders could represent a strategic move for TC Energy, potentially easing social and environmental concerns often associated with pipeline projects.

This initiative aligns with a broader trend in Canada's energy sector, where companies are increasingly seeking Indigenous partnerships to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and gain local support. Such collaboration can mitigate challenges like legal opposition and environmental protests while empowering Indigenous communities to share in the benefits of resource development.

While details of the potential deal with Indigenous groups remain confidential, the January 15th meeting marks a crucial step in this evolving conversation. The outcome could set a precedent for future resource development partnerships in Canada, with significant implications for both the energy sector and Indigenous communities.