08:12 AM EDT, 08/22/2025 (MT Newswires) -- ATCO (ACO-X.TO, ACO-Y.TO) said Friday that subsidiary Canadian Utilities ( CDUTF ) secured approval from the Alberta Utilities Commission on the need assessment application for the Yellowhead pipeline project.

The application is the first of two key regulatory filings that require approval from the commission to advance the project. Canadian Utilities' ( CDUTF ) operating entity, ATCO Energy Systems, will file a separate facilities application later this year to seek approval for construction and operation of the pipeline. Construction is expected to commence in 2026.

The Yellowhead pipeline spans over 230 kilometers and will deliver over 1,200 terajoules of natural gas per day, expanding the capacity of Alberta's natural gas transmission system.

"This Alberta Utilities Commission decision affirms the strategic importance of the Yellowhead Pipeline in supporting Alberta's long-term energy resilience with infrastructure that will empower communities, enable industrial growth and reinforce our commitment to responsible development across the province," said Nancy Southern, chair and CEO of ATCO.