Keystone Pipeline Could Be In Danger

President-elect Joe Biden has laid out many different plans for his first few days in office.  From what he is planning on or at least hinted at, one of the most controversial ones is his handling of the Keystone XL Pipeline.  He has already faced plenty of backlash for his potential plans.  

To begin with, the entirety of the pipeline runs from Canada to parts of the United States.  Biden is only focused on one section of the pipeline, however (Conklin).  He is concerned about the Keystone Pipeline XL, which is the fourth phase of the overall pipeline (Keystone XL).  

According to their website, “Keystone XL is a 1,210-mile (1,947-km) pipeline capable of safely delivering 830,000 barrels per day (Bbl/day) of crude oil from Hardisty, Alberta, to Steele City, Nebraska, where it will connect with TC Energy’s existing facilities to reach U.S. Gulf Coast refiners to meet critical needs for transportation fuel and useful manufactured products.”

The website also says that this piece will invest $8 billion into the North American economy.  On top of that, the site also states that a pipeline is the safest way to transport energy.  

Some are concerned about the environmental impact that the pipeline could have.  Spills are always possible and carbon emissions would likely come from the pipeline as well.  It would also impact endangered species.  If the pipeline is stopped, it would cost 11,000 U.S. jobs (Conklin).

The company, TC Energy Corp., has said that it plans on making the pipeline zero-emission by 2030 (WMUR).  

Canada also has a big stake in the pipeline.  Those involved in this from Canada are hoping to discuss the issue with Biden.  Many Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, are in favor of the pipeline.  Federal Natural Resource Minister Seamus O’Regan argued for the pipeline stating that it will create jobs for both countries involved (WMUR).

Conklin, Audrey. “Biden Ending Keystone Pipeline Would Kill Thousands of American Jobs.” Fox Business, Fox Business, 19 Jan. 2021, http://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/american-jobs-biden-keystone-xl-pipeline.

Keystone XL – About, http://www.keystonexl.com/about/.

Press, Associated, and National Desk Staff. “Canada Urges Biden Not to Cancel Keystone XL Oil Pipeline.” WMUR, 19 Jan. 2021, http://www.wmur.com/article/canada-urges-biden-not-to-cancel-keystone-xl-oil-pipeline/35255234.