South Bow Launches Open Season for 450,000 bpd Prairie Connector Pipeline
South Bow Corp has launched an open season through March 30 for its proposed 450,000-barrel-per-day Prairie Connector pipeline from Hardisty, AB to Cushing, OK and Gulf Coast hubs to revive the Keystone XL project. The revival plan could boost Canadian crude exports by 12% and leverages previously built Alberta permits.
1. Prairie Connector Open Season Launch
South Bow opened commercial open season on March 5 for its Prairie Connector pipeline, running until March 30. The process will gauge shipper support commitments ahead of final investment decisions.
2. Pipeline Specifications and Route
The pipeline will move 450,000 barrels per day of crude from Hardisty, Alberta through Cushing, Oklahoma to Gulf Coast delivery hubs. It repurposes previously built segments and leverages existing Alberta permits.
3. Potential Export Impact and Regulatory Hurdles
Reviving the project could lift Canada’s crude exports by 12%, enhancing market access to US refineries. Final construction hinges on a US presidential permit and additional regulatory approvals.
4. Keystone XL Project Background
Originally proposed in 2008 for 830,000 barrels per day, the Keystone XL pipeline was canceled under two administrations before components were spun out to South Bow in 2024. The new route avoids earlier environmental objections by following a different alignment.