Permitting timeline for Line 3 pipeline

The permitting timeline indicates that the certifications on all remaining State permits required for the construction of Line 3 will be provided by this November. Enbridge anticipates that the remaining Federal permits will be finalised approximately 30 to 60 days thereafter.

“We now have a firm schedule from the State on the timing of the remaining permits for our Line 3 Replacement project,” said Al Monaco, President and Chief Executive Officer of Enbridge. “We support a robust and transparent permitting process that includes opportunity for public input. We'll continue to work closely with State officials during this process.”

This new permitting schedule updates the Company's prior expectation for the receipt of final State permits in the 2Q19, which underpinned an expected in-service date before the end of this year. In light of this permitting timeline, the Company is developing a revised construction schedule for the Line 3 Replacement Project, but now expects an in-service date during the second half of 2020. More specific timing on the in-service date, as well as any potential impacts on the 2020 financial outlook, will be provided once the revised construction schedule is finalised. The Company's 2019 distributable cash flow guidance range of US$4.30 to US$4.60/share remains unchanged as a result of this permitting schedule.

“We appreciate the State's ongoing efforts in this regard and will continue to work with the State agencies and the Administration to ensure that this critical safety-driven project is completed in a timely manner. We also want to thank all stakeholders, including resident Tribes in Minnesota, various labour groups, local landowners, and the many counties and municipalities along the right of way for their continued support.”

Background

The US$9 billion Line 3 Replacement Project is a critical integrity replacement project that will enhance the safety and reliability of the Enbridge Liquids Mainline System. The project has received overwhelming support from stakeholders in Minnesota.

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission approved the Certificate of Need and Route Permit in June 2018 and unanimously denied petitions to reconsider the decisions. In addition, agreement was reached with the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa granting a new 20 year easement for the entire Mainline including the Line 3 Replacement Project through their Reservation.

In October 2018, Enbridge submitted all permit applications to the various federal and State agencies, including the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and other local government agencies in Minnesota.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/04032019/permitting-timeline-for-line-3-pipeline/