Study identifies alternatives for replacing Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline
Published by Lydia Woellwarth,
Editor
World Pipelines,
Enbridge has delivered to the State of Michigan a feasibility study on alternatives to potentially replace Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac. This study delivers on Enbridge’s November 2017 commitment to assess the feasibility of three potential alternatives for the eventual replacement of the dual, 20 in. Line 5 pipelines in the Straits, while also increasing co-ordination and promoting transparency between Enbridge and the State.
The study identifies two feasible options, including either placing a pipe in a concrete-lined tunnel beneath the Straits or placing a pipe inside a larger, secondary containment pipe, which would be buried in a trench near the shore and laid on the lakebed covered with rock to protect it at deeper depths.
The horizontal directional drilling (HDD) alternative is not feasible due to technical limitations.
The Straits of Mackinac is a special place, vital to Michigan residents and the state’s economy – and Enbridge recognises its responsibility for protecting the Great Lakes while safely meeting Michigan’s energy needs.
This report is the result of the co-ordinated efforts between State-appointed experts, independent consultants and the Enbridge team and will serve as a starting point to help the State and Enbridge determine a possible path forward for the future of Line 5 in Michigan.
Line 5 has been, and will continue to be, a critical link in the Straits of Mackinac – connecting Michigan’s two peninsulas to safely and reliably deliver the energy Michigan families and businesses rely on each day. Both feasible alternatives would help ensure the continued safety and protection of the Great Lakes for future generations, and Enbridge looks forward to its continued collaboration with the State to further explore the viability of these options.
Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/18062018/study-identifies-alternatives-for-replacing-enbridges-line-5-pipeline/
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