The Canada Energy Regulator (CER) has scheduled a hearing Friday, January 12th, to consider a request by Trans Mountain Corp. to modify its construction method for the nearly completed Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project.

In its letter to Trans Mountain, the CER stated concerns about the proposed change in construction method and its potential impact on pipeline integrity and the environment. The upcoming hearing will provide an opportunity for Trans Mountain to address these concerns and present their case for the modification.

"The CER is committed to ensuring that pipelines are built and operated safely and in accordance with all applicable regulations," said a spokesperson for the regulator in a statement. "This hearing will allow us to gather additional information and make a well-informed decision on Trans Mountain's request."

The Trans Mountain expansion has been a contentious issue, with environmental groups and Indigenous communities raising concerns about potential spills and the project's contribution to climate change.

Supporters of the project argue it is vital for Canada's economy and energy security.

The project, originally expected to come online early this year, has faced repeated delays and could now be pushed back by as much as two years, according to Trans Mountain, which blames a recent ruling by the CER denying their request to use smaller-diameter pipe in a challenging section of the route.

Despite the challenges, work on the controversial pipeline project is 95% completed, as reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) on Tuesday, January 9.  The pipeline expansion project will nearly triple the pipeline's current capacity, from 300,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 890,000 bpd when completed, opening up new export options for Canadian oil sands to Asian and West Coast markets.

The outcome of the hearing will be closely watched by the energy industry, investors, and environmental groups as it could determine the fate of the long-delayed project.