TransCanada filed its Eastern Mainline Project Description with the National Energy Board (NEB) today. TransCanada proposes to construct and operate a new natural gas pipeline along its existing Canadian Mainline in Southeastern Ontario, from Markham to Iroquois. In its letter to the NEB, TransCanada states that it needs the new pipeline to continue servicing customers following the proposed transfer of Canadian Mainline facilities to Energy East Pipeline and its conversion to crude oil.
According to the project description, the Eastern Mainline Project includes 370 km of 914 mm pipeline, compression facilities at existing compressor stations, mainline valve sites, access roads and construction related temporary infrastructure. The proposed route of the Eastern Mainline Project crosses Rouge Park, Cataraqui River (Rideau Canal), Trent-Severn Waterway, seven Conservation Authorities, eight rivers and numerous streams and wetlands, and 23 local municipalities. About 70 per cent of the proposed route is on lands designated for agricultural purposes. The project description identifies eleven Aboriginal communities for consultation.
TransCanada plans to file an application for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to construct and operate the pipeline in Q3 2014. Participant Funding will likely be available for eligible parties including individuals, landowners and Aboriginal groups to participate in the NEB oral hearing.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.