Canada’s NEB approves TransCanada’s proposal for gas pipeline construction

Canada’s National Energy Board (NEB) has issued a letter conditionally approving TransCanada PipeLines’ application for the construction and operation of approximately 11.7km of new natural gas pipeline in Vaughan, Ontario.

The Vaughan Mainline Expansion (VME) Project will be integrated into the company’s existing mainline system and its King’s North Connection Pipeline.

The NEB determined on 11 January that the VME Project application was complete and could proceed through the assessment process.

Later on, the board began the hearing process on 10 February and issued Hearing Order GH-001-2016, as well as invited the public to apply for participation.

The regulator also announced that standing was granted to aboriginal groups where their traditional territory is affected, municipalities where the project is, and landowners or occupants whose land passes through the project.

Overall, participation status was granted to 17 intervenors and five commenters.

Proposed to address customer demand for natural gas in Ontario and Eastern Canada markets, the project will improve access to new natural gas supplies from the US North East.

It will include the construction of 42in diameter pipe for the transportation of natural gas.

The application for approval was submitted by TransCanada on 10 November last year.

TransCanada said that the project will also provide financial benefits to the City of Vaughan through local spending at the time of construction and through annual property tax payments.