The Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade (SWRBOT) welcomes today’s announcement from the Province of British Columbia approving regulatory changes that will enable FortisBC to advance the Phase 1B expansion of the Tilbury LNG Facility in Delta. This milestone represents an important step forward for strengthening British Columbia’s energy infrastructure, supporting economic growth, and enhancing the competitiveness of the Port of Vancouver.

SWRBOT has been a longstanding advocate for the Tilbury LNG expansion and has consistently supported investments that strengthen critical infrastructure, improve regional economic resilience, and create opportunities for businesses across Metro Vancouver and British Columbia. The Board of Trade has engaged with government leaders and industry partners to highlight the importance of projects that support energy reliability, investment, job creation, and long-term economic competitiveness.

“Today’s announcement is welcome news for businesses across our region and represents the type of strategic infrastructure investment needed to support British Columbia’s growing economy,” said Joslyn Young, CEO of the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade. “Reliable energy infrastructure is essential to attracting investment, supporting business growth, and ensuring communities like Surrey and White Rock have the capacity needed to grow and thrive.”

The Tilbury Phase 1B expansion represents a significant economic opportunity, supporting up to $2.2 billion in investment, creating thousands of employment opportunities, and strengthening supply chains throughout the province. The project is expected to contribute more than $800 million in GDP during construction, generate approximately 1,100 jobs annually over four years during construction, and provide long-term economic benefits through operations, procurement, and supply chain activity.

For businesses in Surrey, White Rock, and throughout the Lower Mainland, investments in critical infrastructure provide greater certainty and confidence to grow, invest, and create jobs. A reliable and resilient energy system is foundational to economic competitiveness, particularly as businesses navigate increasing demand, supply chain pressures, and a rapidly changing global marketplace.

The project also represents an opportunity to support the transition toward lower-emission marine transportation. By expanding access to LNG marine fueling, Tilbury will help position the Port of Vancouver as a leading hub for lower-carbon marine fuels while supporting efforts to reduce emissions from the shipping sector.

SWRBOT looks forward to continued progress on the Tilbury LNG expansion and will continue advocating for infrastructure investments that strengthen British Columbia’s economy, support businesses, and create opportunities for communities across the province.