5 First Nations ink deal for ownership stake in part of LNG Canada Phase 2

5 First Nations ink deal for ownership stake in part of LNG Canada Phase 2

Published 4:00 pm Tuesday, July 14, 2026

LNG Canada marine terminal, February 2025. (Black Press Media file photo)

LNG Canada is offering a group of five B.C. First Nations, the opportunity to invest in a $1 billion liquefied natural gas storage tank that would be built as part of the facility’s Phase 2 expansion.

The First Nations, through the MNT Investments limited partnership, will be able to invest in the project by purchasing the giant 225,000-square-metre storage tank — which would be the largest in Canada — and leasing it back to LNG Canada for the operational life of the project.

LNG Canada would still be responsible for maintaining and operating the 56-by-92-metre nickel alloy steel tank and its associated infrastructure.

The deal would be executed only if the Phase 2 expansion is given the go-ahead. The final investment decision is expected by the end of 2026.

MNT is made up of five First Nations neighbouring LNG Canada’s Kitimat operations: the Gitga’at First Nation, Gitxaała Nation, Haisla Nation, Kitselas First Nation and Kitsumkalum.

This deal would provide these five nations with direct ownership of a major part of the LNG Canada operation.

Clarence Innes of the Gitxaała Nation said in a news release that this deal “creates a historic pathway for Indigenous partnerships in Canada’s energy future.”

“This partnership with LNG Canada aligns with Gitxaała’s values, and together with our neighbouring Nations, we are showing what is possible when First Nations leadership, industry and governments work together with a shared vision grounded in consent, respect and partnership,” he said.

LNG Canada has already shipped more than 100 loads since it began operation on June 30, 2025. Phase 2 would increase plant capacity by 30 million tonnes per year.