Case Studies
ALBERTA
Net-Zero Hydrogen Energy Complex Pipeline
Project Overview
The Net-Zero Hydrogen Energy Complex marks a significant step in Alberta’s clean energy transformation. As part of this initiative, a large-scale pipeline was planned to support hydrogen production and distribution through a range of complex landscapes and utility corridors near Edmonton.
Due to limited documentation in several segments and ongoing design changes, the project demanded a field team with adaptability, problem-solving ability, and precision.
Our Role
TCB was brought in during the early development phase to:
Deliver comprehensive utility locating
Conduct subsurface infrastructure verification
Create a reliable underground utility model to support construction planning
Operate across both urban and rural environments with varying data availability
The Challenge
Partial Initial Data – Some areas lacked reliable documentation at the outset
Dynamic Design Inputs – Project scope and GIS layers evolved over time
High Stakes – Work needed to be accurate and safe, even in data-light zones
Our team had to stay flexible and investigative while ensuring each locate could be trusted for critical infrastructure decisions.
Our Approach
Multi-Source Data Integration
Used a mix of client-supplied data, public GIS systems (e.g. Spin 2), and in-house mapping tools to develop an underground model.Progressive Data Enhancement
As GIS layers were updated, our verified field data was integrated into the main dataset—improving its accuracy and usefulness.Detailed Field Documentation
Every locate was diagrammed and logged thoroughly to support ground disturbance planning and provide confidence to all downstream teams.
Team Insight
“We worked with the initial survey plans and GIS layers provided and supplemented them with additional tools to ensure a clear picture of the underground environment. As the project progressed, our findings helped enhance and update the existing project data.”
Impact
Enabled safe ground disturbance in areas with limited existing data
Uncovered previously undocumented infrastructure, allowing timely redesigns
Improved the accuracy of the overall project GIS through field-verified data
Built client trust by delivering clear, actionable insights from the field
Looking Ahead
This project showcases the value of experienced utility locating teams in the earliest phases of infrastructure development. In fast-moving, data-challenged environments, our team helps reduce risk and build clarity from the ground up. We're proud to have supported this forward-thinking clean energy project and are ready to assist on similar sustainability-driven initiatives.
Lac la Biche / Fort McMurray Pipeline
Project Overview
The Cheecham region—nestled between Lac La Biche and Fort McMurray—is known for its rugged terrain, harsh weather, and limited infrastructure. TCB was brought in to support the construction of 18 km of NPS 10 & 12 pipelines, offering both utility locating and ground disturbance coordination throughout pre-construction and active development phases.
This project required a high degree of field resilience, coordination, and logistical problem-solving in one of Alberta’s more challenging environments.
Our Role
We served as a key partner in ensuring the project moved forward safely, compliantly, and efficiently:
Utility Locating – Identified and mapped underground infrastructure along the pipeline alignment
Ground Disturbance Coordination – Liaised between stakeholders to manage clearances, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements
Remote Field Support – Managed field logistics, personnel, and equipment in a rugged, low-access environment
Key Challenges
Rough Terrain – Swamps, dense forest, and elevation shifts impacted mobility and staging
Extreme Weather – Freezing temperatures and unpredictable conditions created safety and scheduling concerns
Remote Location – Minimal access to amenities and support required our teams to operate independently for long periods
Our Solutions
Cabbed UTV Deployment
Outfitted field teams with enclosed UTVs to ensure safe, reliable transportation and shelter in harsh weatherExperienced Coordination
Our coordinators synchronized schedules across construction crews, utility owners, and third-party contractors to avoid conflicts and stay compliant with Alberta regulationsAdaptive Field Strategy
Teams optimized routes, workflows, and schedules based on terrain and environmental constraints, maintaining alignment with project milestones
Impact
Project executed with zero utility strikes or underground conflicts
All ground disturbance activities remained on schedule and within regulatory compliance
Our crews demonstrated operational strength and adaptability in a remote, high-risk environment
Reinforced TCB’s reputation as a reliable partner for complex northern projects
Looking Ahead
This project highlights TCB’s capacity to deliver critical support in extreme conditions. From urban environments to remote wilderness, our team brings the tools, talent, and coordination required to complete infrastructure work safely and efficiently—no matter the setting.
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Coquitlam Water Main Installation
Project Overview
In this dense urban project, Metro Vancouver required high-precision utility locating to support the installation of a massive pipeline—amid complex underground infrastructure and outdated records.
The Challenge
Dense urban environment = zero margin for error
Over 100 years of inconsistent as-built data
Project success hinged on pre-construction accuracy
Our Role
We delivered advanced utility locating across the entire site with exceptional accuracy, despite the difficult terrain and historical data issues.
Results & Impact
Pinpoint Accuracy – Boosted client confidence and team morale
Improved Planning – Enabled better-informed project decisions
Data Correction – Helped update city records by identifying errors
Trusted Partner – Recognized for going above and beyond scope
Client Feedback
“The accuracy of their locates boosted our field staff’s morale and confidence… Their diligence helped us correct inaccuracies in city records—well beyond their original scope.”
Edmonton to Burnaby Right-of-Way Support
Project Overview
This major pipeline expansion, spanning from Edmonton to Burnaby, required more than typical construction support—it demanded precise coordination of environmental and cultural activities across a highly regulated corridor.
TCB was brought in to provide both field-level utility locating and project-level coordination to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient execution of efforts such as archaeological digs, reforestation, and ornamental tree planting.
Our Role
TCB delivered full-spectrum support, including:
Line Locating – Accurate, field-proven utility locates to support safe excavation
Ground Disturbance Coordination – Stakeholder engagement, clearance management, ticket handling
One Call Management – Managed Alberta and BC systems, ensuring proper notifications and responses
Support for Specialized Work – Enabled safe access for archaeology teams, tree planters, and environmental crews
Key Challenges
Two Provinces, Two Rulebooks – Navigating distinct One Call systems and clearance frameworks in AB & BC
Many Stakeholders – Municipalities, utility owners, communities, and contractors all needed coordination
Non-Standard Excavations – Sporadic or shallow digs with variable clearance and safety requirements
Ongoing Scope Changes – New locations, teams, and permitting needs arose as phases evolved
Our Approach
End-to-End Coordination – A dedicated coordinator handled all ground disturbance communication and compliance
Field Locating Expertise – High-confidence utility locates enabled teams to dig safely and efficiently
Jurisdictional Agility – Seamless operation within both Alberta and BC regulations
Custom Tracking Tools – Internal systems to track tickets, utility responses, and clearances in real time
Impact
Delivered precise utility locates across sensitive, high-traffic work zones
Maintained compliance with dozens of regulatory authorities across two provinces
Supported hundreds of activities across archaeology, restoration, and environmental teams
Prevented delays by proactively managing utility responses and clearance requirements
Became a trusted extension of the client’s team—delivering confidence and control in a complex environment
Client Feedback
“It was a major feat coordinating all the moving pieces, from archaeological teams to tree planting crews, and TCB handled it with professionalism, accuracy, and dedication. Their coordinator became a critical part of our success.”
