TransCanada submits application for KXL pipeline approval

TransCanada has submitted a Presidential Permit application to the US State Department for the approval of the Keystone XL (KXL) Pipeline.

The company stated that improved standards and use of the new technology will help ensure the pipeline will be built and operated to its proposal to safety.

TransCanada president and CEO Russ Girling said: "This privately funded infrastructure project will help meet America's growing energy needs, as well as create tens of thousands of well-paying jobs and generate substantial economic benefit throughout the US and Canada.

"KXL will strengthen the United States' energy security and remains in the national interest. The project is an important new piece of modern US infrastructure that secures access to an abundant energy resource produced by a neighbour that shares a commitment to a clean and healthy environment.

“Numerous studies have shown that pipelines are a safer and more environmentally sound way to transport oil to market than trains and KXL raises the bar on both fronts."

The State Department estimates that KXL will support several direct and indirect jobs and associated income during construction.

The pipeline is also expected to contribute approximately $3.4bn to US GDP.

KXL project is a proposed 1,897km, 36in-diameter crude oil pipeline, beginning in Hardisty, Alberta, and extending south to Steele City, Nebraska, US.

This pipeline is intended to be a critical infrastructure project for the energy security of the US and will increase tax benefits for counties and communities.

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Image: Pipes for the Keystone Pipeline. Photo: Courtesy of Shannonpatrick17 from Swanton, Nebraska, U.S.A/Wikipedia.