“We are helping the industry maximize the value of their crude oil,” said Al Monaco, executive vice-president for major projects.

“Having storage is critical, it offers flexibility for refinery operations so they can have a continuous flow. So for them space has value, and that is what we are providing,” he said.

“We brought the first pipeline down to Hardisty from Fort McMurray in 1999, and as production has increased we have been increasing capacity. This is a market structure driven by the needs of the U.S. grid,” Art Meyer, Enbridge senior vice-president for oilsands projects said.

Enbridge is an energy delivery company that transports natural gas and crude oil, which are used to heat homes, power transportation systems, and provide fuel and feedstock for industries.