British Columbia issued an environmental assessment certificate with 23 legally enforceable conditions for the Ksi Lisims LNG project, while Ottawa the same day approved the project under the Impact Assessment Act. This advances a two-unit floating LNG development on Pearse Island designed for up to 12 million tonnes per year.
The provincial certificate follows an assessment that began in 2021 and was led by BC’s Environmental Assessment Office for both governments under a “one project, one review” substitution process.
The federal release confirms this is the first approval under the amended 2024 IAA.
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Provincial conditions span emissions, construction impacts, marine noise, transportation, health services, gender and cultural safety, socioeconomic hiring and procurement, Indigenous engagement on marine activity, a BC Hydro grid connection when service is available, and a standing community feedback process. 
Employment requirements in the BC certificate indicate an average of up to 450 workers during construction and a permanent workforce of up to 250 people.
At the federal level, the Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin’s decision statement allows the project to proceed to permitting and authorizations and imposes legally binding conditions to mitigate effects within federal jurisdiction, including measures for fish and birds, Indigenous health and socio-economic conditions, cultural heritage, and rights.
“My decision reflects a collaborative, transparent process – led by the province, supported by federal expertise, and shaped by meaningful Indigenous leadership. We believe the project will contribute to sustainability, reconciliation, and Indigenous economic self-determination,” Dabrusin said.
Energy Minister Tim Hodgson lauded the approval, saying this sends a clear signal that “Canada is open for business, and committed to the long- term strength of our responsible, low-carbon export and natural gas sectors.”
Indigenous consultation outcomes recorded by the EAO note varied positions: Gitga’at and Kitselas issued notices of consent, Lax Kw’alaams and Metlakatla did not consent (with dispute resolution undertaken), Kitsumkalum did not consent, and Gitxaala did not provide a notice regarding consent. The ministers stated they are satisfied the certificate conditions reasonably avoid, minimize, and accommodate potential adverse effects.
Capacity and proponent structure remain unchanged: Ksi Lisims LNG is a partnership among the Nisga’a Nation, Rockies LNG Limited Partnership, and Western LNG.
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