The Ksi Lisims LNG project, located about 80 kilometers north of Prince Rupert, British Columbia, has been granted an environmental assessment certificate. This approval is a significant milestone for the $10 billion megaproject, which aims to produce 12 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually. The project is a collaboration between the Nisga’a Nation, Rockies LNG Limited Partnership, and Western LNG.

Environment Minister Tamara Davidson and Energy Minister Adrian Dix announced the approval on Monday. The project will involve two floating LNG plants off Pearse Island and is expected to begin operations in late 2028 or 2029. The provincial government stated that the environmental assessment process took nearly four years and included input from various stakeholders, including First Nations, technical experts, and the public.

Despite the approval, the project faces opposition from environmental groups and some hereditary chiefs. Critics argue that the project will harm the environment and enrich U.S. interests, as Western LNG is based in Texas. Thomas Green, a climate policy adviser for the David Suzuki Foundation, expressed concerns, stating, "Approving another LNG project means more pollution, higher climate risks, and greater harm to our health."

The project will require a 900-kilometer gas pipeline, which was approved by the B.C. government in June. The environmental assessment certificate includes 23 legally enforceable conditions aimed at mitigating the project's impact. These conditions include a greenhouse gas emissions plan, wildlife habitat management, and a health services plan to address the needs of local communities.

The B.C. government has committed to ongoing consultation with First Nations regarding the project's impacts. Ten First Nations were consulted during the assessment, with varying levels of support. The Gitga’at and Kitselas nations consented to the project, while others, including the Metlakatla and Kitsumkalum nations, did not.

The project is expected to create approximately 450 jobs during construction, peaking at around 800 workers. Once operational, it will maintain a permanent workforce of 150 to 250 employees for at least 30 years. The provincial government believes the project will have positive economic effects on surrounding communities.

As the project moves forward, the B.C. Environmental Assessment Office will ensure compliance with all conditions and monitor the project's development to minimize adverse effects on the environment and local communities.