The eight-volume regulatory application provides an overview of the proposed project and its benefits and will be assessed by a joint review panel recently established by the Minister of the Environment and the National Energy Board.
The application covers all aspects of the proposed project including the environmental and socio-economic assessment, environmental protection and risk management measures, engineering, construction and operations, public consultation and aboriginal engagement, marine transportation and project economics, Enbridge said.
Patrick Daniel, president and CEO of Enbridge, said: “The Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipeline project will open important new markets for Canadian crude oil; it will create jobs and a substantial long-term boost to our nation’s economy as well as the communities through which it will pass.
“With an estimated capital cost of $5.5bn, Northern Gateway is expected to create thousands of job opportunities for regional residents throughout project construction and operations, while providing approximately $36m of local property taxes on an annual basis.”
The Northern Gateway Pipeline project involves a 1,172km twin pipelines system, running underground from near Edmonton, Alberta to Kitimat, British Columbia, associated pipeline facilities and a tank terminal and marine terminal located in Kitimat.
One pipeline, a 36-inch diameter line with an initial capacity of 525,000bpd, will transport crude oil for export from the Edmonton area to Kitimat. The other pipeline, a 20-inch diameter line with an initial capacity of 193,000bpd, will be used to import condensate. A tank terminal and marine terminal, referred to as the Kitimat Terminal, is also part of the project.
The Northern Gateway Pipeline is expected to be in service in 2016, subject to finalization of commercial terms with industry and regulatory approvals.
