U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says that Alberta's "dirty oil" is a better alternative for the United States than using oil from the Gulf.

While speaking to a group in San Francisco, Clinton mentioned that a proposed Alberta to Texas oil pipeline may soon get the green light.

"We're either going to be dependent on dirty oil from the gulf or dirty oil from Canada," Clinton told the group.

And despite calling Alberta's oil "dirty", Clinton has given a strong indication that the pipeline will be approved by the U.S. state department.

The secretary of state went on to add that the U.S. government hasn't signed off on a deal but said they are inclined to do so.

The province says while the comments appear to be a step forward in the quest to expand oil exports, it's not content with the tone of Clinton's remarks.

"We can talk about labeling it however we want but this is a very safe secure supply of oil," said Premier Ed Stelmach.

Greenpeace feels Clinton's comments indicate a willingness to use the oilsands for only a short amount of time, rather than a long-term commitment.

"The U.S. is very clear they're moving to a green energy economy the tar sands are not part of that, but in the meantime they're going to tolerate them," said Greepeace spokesperson Mike Hudema.

The province maintains its major oil supply is becoming cleaner.

MacEwan University's Colin Babiuk believes in the end that may not matter as the U.S. is indicating that for now, the economy is more of a priority than the environment.

"They need the oil so regardless of where it comes from they're going to need it," said Babiuk.

Some American officials are speaking out about Clinton's remarks. A senator from Nebraska sent Clinton a letter Thursday saying her support for the pipeline undermines a review process currently underway for the $7-billion project that many critics are opposed to.

The Keystone XL pipeline project would transport as many as 900,000 barrels of oil a day from Alberta, which would double the amount of current oil sands exports.

With files from Scott Roberts