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Suthanthiran, a U.S.-based entrepreneur, proposes to develop Kitsault, B.C. into an energy hub by building two pipelines from Alberta: one for natural gas and another for crude oil. He envisions exporting oil and liquid butanol from a marine terminal near Kitsault, leveraging geopolitical shifts favoring energy exports to non-U.S. markets.

His previous plans for an eco-resort and a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal have not materialized. The town, which was a mining site until 1983, remains largely vacant but has existing infrastructure.

Suthanthiran's proposal includes a deepwater port on Observatory Inlet and a manufacturing facility for liquid butanol. The Alberta government is also pursuing a new oilsands pipeline project, emphasizing collaboration with First Nations. Despite challenges, Suthanthiran believes conditions are favorable for his vision, particularly amid changing trade dynamics.