The proposed Tenas metallurgical coal mine near Smithers, B.C., is approaching the final stage of its provincial environmental assessment, with construction potentially beginning in 2027, subject to regulatory approval. The open-pit project is expected to produce approximately 775,000 to 825,000 tonnes of steelmaking coal annually, transported by CN Rail to Trigon Terminals in Prince Rupert for export, primarily to Asian markets. The project has an estimated 25-year lifespan, including construction, operations and reclamation. However, local environmental groups have raised concerns about water contamination, impacts on salmon and endangered caribou, and greenhouse gas emissions. Following consultations with Wet’suwet’en communities, the proponent is incorporating additional environmental safeguards before entering a 150-day regulatory review expected to begin in early 2027.
