Those who oppose separation say a newly-independent Alberta would be left responsible for billions of dollars in debt, and warn that the uncertainty would drive thousands of jobs and investment out of the province.

Some, including Prime Minister Carney, have likened the Alberta referendum to “Brexit” when the UK voted to leave the European Union in 2016, warning that a vote to leave may come with unintended economic consequences.

In his speech on Thursday, Carney acknowledged that “the frustrations that many Albertans have felt are real”.

But he said that his government is willing to support Alberta and its energy industry.

In the weeks leading up to the referendum, Carney announced his plans to fast-track approval of a new oil pipeline from Alberta to Canada’s Pacific coast.

He has described the project as “a demonstration of the power of Canada” and argued it would help the country diversify its markets as it deals with US tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

Premier Smith is set to speak at a separate pro-unity event in Calgary on Friday alongside Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, who has also advocated for Alberta to remain in Canada.

Meanwhile, advocates for Alberta separation are planning a rally in Edmonton on Saturday in their own last-minute push to turn out voters.

Early figures suggest a high voter turn-out, with the number of ballots cast already higher than Alberta’s last provincial general election.