Enbridge to submit final Line 9B arguments in writing

Following demonstrations at public hearings in Montreal and Toronto, the National Energy Board (NEB) has ordered Enbridge to present its final arguments on Line 9B pipeline project in writing instead of at a hearing.

Enbridge, who seek approval to reverse the flow of Line 9 and increase its capacity, was to close eight days of public hearings in Montreal and Toronto with final replies on Saturday the 19^th October. On Friday however, NEB suspended its public review due to security reasons after protestors caused disruption.

“A fair and efficient way”
Today, NEB announced that Enbridge must provide its reply arguments to the board and interveners by Friday 25^th October at 2 pm. Energy board spokesperson Carole Leger-Kubecezek said, “The oral reply was cancelled due to concerns with respect to the security of participants […] The board determined that having Enbridge reply in writing was a fair and efficient way to receive Enbridge’s reply.”

Line 9B reversal
Originally flowing eastward, Line 9B was reversed in 1998 as foreign oil from areas such as West Africa and the Middle East became more affordable. However, because Western Canadian crude oil is now priced significantly lower than foreign oil, Enbridge wants to reverse the flow of the 639 km pipeline and increase the capacity from 240 00 bpd to 300 000 bpd.

Enbridge has argued for the economic benefits of the pipeline project. They propose that the line is safe and well-maintained, and that the project would provide a much-needed boost to struggling Quebec refineries. In addition, Enbridge believes the reversal project will create numerous jobs in the province.

Edited from various sources by Hannah Priestley-Eaton

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/24102013/enbridge_to_submit_final_line_9b_arguments_in_writing/