Enbridge invests in oil spill control equipment

Enbridge Energy has invested CAN$7 million in oil and gas spill control and recovery equipment for pipelines laid in the Straits of Mackinac. The company has twin pipelines in Lake Huron and Lake Michigan.

Enbridge intends to utilise its skimming and containment devices to assist crews in recovering oil quickly and effectively in the open water of the Straits.

The company has also purchased two new booms, which are also designed to recover the released oil in open water.

“Obviously, the Straits of Mackinac is a very special area. It’s important to the folks who live there, the business owners, the recreational boaters, and we really wanted to make sure we stepped up our game in regard to open water responses.And, in the very unlikely event that we have to respond to a pipeline incident, we’re ready. Preventing all spills or leaks is our ultimate goal. Still, we want to go above and beyond to be prepared for any incident,” said Stephen Lloyd, a Senior Manager of Emergency Response for Enbridge Energy.

However, many still oppose Enbridge’s lines. Protesting groups such as Oil & Water Don’t Mix have called for the lines to be shut down.

Mike Shriberg, National Wildlife Federation’s Great Lakes Regional Executive Director, stated: “While we welcome Enbridge bringing its response equipment more up-to-date, this investment pales in comparison to what is at risk from an oil spill from this ageing pipeline. There is very little hope of effectively cleaning up an oil spill in the Straits of Mackinac. That’s why decision makers are turning their attention to stopping the flow of oil on the bottom of the straits by finding an alternative that protects our Great Lakes, public health, communities and economy.”

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/22062016/enbridge-invests-in-oil-spill-control-equipment/