Canada’s energy industry is the engine of our nation’s economy. And B.C.’s oil and natural gas sector is a key pillar of this. The second largest producer of natural gas in Canada, it generates thousands of jobs and billions in economic activity each year.
From local businesses to global markets, the sector drives growth at every level. Its footprint spans hundreds of municipalities and indigenous communities, supports thousands of companies, and delivers critical revenues to governments. Whether through procurement, royalties, or exports, B.C.’s natural gas industry is a powerhouse of productivity and opportunity.
Natural Gas Builds Communities
British Columbia’s oil and natural gas sector also makes a significant contribution to communities across the province—not only by employing approximately 68,000 British Columbians, but also by providing some of the highest-paying jobs in the region.
The sector plays a vital role in driving economic growth and delivering tangible benefits. Its impact goes far beyond the wellhead—fueling local businesses, supporting community programs, and contributing to long-term regional, provincial, national development.
Natural Gas Helps Build Indigenous Prosperity
The industry contributes meaningfully to economic reconciliation with Indigenous communities, organizations and businesses. Beyond direct employment, shared benefits include purchasing arrangements, equity partnerships, business agreements, community investments, training and skills development.
This sector is also advancing economic reconciliation by fostering meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities. Through inclusive procurement practices and long-term collaboration, Indigenous-affiliated businesses are increasingly integrated into the energy supply chain.
Today, tomorrow and for decades to come
Global demand for oil and natural gas remains robust. Projections indicate natural gas demand is expected to reach nearly 4,300 billion cubic metres (bcm) annually. Asia will drive much of the world’s new gas demand over the next two decades, and B.C. is their closest North American supplier.
Towards a strong energy future
Due to insufficient market access capacity for natural gas out of western Canada, major Canadian natural gas benchmarks (AECO & Station 2) have traded at a significant discount, resulting in lower revenues for governments, workers, and producers alike.
Increasing LNG exports out of western Canada should alleviate these market access constraints, allowing Canadian producers to receive a more competitive price for their product, leading to increased revenue.
B.C.’s natural gas industry has been building. LNG Canada and Coastal GasLink are just a few examples of the major projects Canada has successfully developed – and they represent only a fraction of what’s possible. We can build more. We have the potential to expand our LNG export capacity, continue building a world-class petrochemical industry and establish ourselves as a global leader in carbon capture.
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