Enbridge is reiterating the importance of Line 5 after facing criticism that the shutdown of the controversial pipeline would have negligible impacts on gas prices.
Earlier this month, Canadian-based Environmental Defence said Enbridge’s own expert confirmed that shutting down Line 5 would result in only a one to two cent per litre increase in gas prices, according to a recent report.
In an emailed statement, Enbridge spokesperson Jesse Semko said it is clear that a shut-down of Line 5 would only add to the current disruption of the energy market.
"All pieces of energy infrastructure are needed now more than ever. An integrated North American energy network provides the affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy that is needed across the continent."
Semko pointed to testimony filed in support of Enbridge’s summary judgment motion in the Bad River case in April 2022.
"Neil Earnest characterizes the impacts to Michigan and Ontario propane markets as “extreme” with impacts to all crude oil refiners as significant, leaving regional consumers facing volatile markets and incurring higher prices for gasoline, jet fuel, and diesel."
Semko said based on the energy needs of Ontario and Quebec, Michigan and other Great Lakes states, it makes little sense to shut Line 5 down.
He added that Line 5 is critical to Sarnia’s Petrochemical Manufacturing Complex, directly employing over 4,900 people and generating an additional 23,500 jobs.
Semko the best long-term plan to maintain the energy needs of this region is the Great Lakes Tunnel Project, a $500 million Line 5 replacement project announced in 2018.
In October, the Canadian government invoked a 1977 treaty with the US to keep the pipeline flowing.
