PM Carney Unveils $60B National Projects to Boost Canada’s Energy and Economy

Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced the first series of major projects he describes as being in Canada’s “national interest,” aimed at strengthening the economy, creating jobs, and reducing reliance on the United States. The projects span energy, nuclear power, shipping, and critical minerals, representing investments of more than $60 billion.
One of the largest initiatives is the expansion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) production in northern British Columbia. The project will double LNG Canada’s capacity, making it the second-largest facility of its kind globally, while producing emissions significantly lower than international averages. Carney said the expansion will diversify Canada’s energy exports, meet global demand for secure low-carbon power, and support tens of thousands of high-paying jobs.
The second major initiative focuses on Ontario’s Darlington nuclear plant, where Canada will build its first small modular reactor (SMR). Once completed, the reactor will supply clean energy to 300,000 homes, sustain thousands of jobs, and position Canada as a global leader in SMR technology. Over the long term, the Darlington site could power 1.2 million homes.
In Quebec, the Contrecoeur Terminal expansion at the Port of Montreal will increase shipping capacity by 60 percent, creating thousands of jobs and generating $140 million annually for local and national economies.
Carney also announced critical mineral projects, including the McIlvenna Bay copper mine in Saskatchewan and the Red Chris copper and gold mine in British Columbia. These ventures aim to make Canada a leading supplier of critical minerals essential for electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. The projects will be developed in collaboration with Indigenous communities and include plans for a Northwest Critical Conservation Corridor to support clean power transmission.
Together, these initiatives mark a transformative step in Canada’s economic strategy, focused on energy independence, clean technology, and sustainable growth.