Mainline System
The Enbridge mainline system continues to go through significant change as mainline expansions are completed. Mainline capacity out of Western Canada will change from 2.12 million barrels per day (bpd) at the end of 2008 to 2.61 million bpd by mid-2010.
Annual Capacity (000’ bpd)
| Year | Quarter | Annual Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Q1 | 1.80 million bpd |
| 2006 | Q1 | 1.93 million bpd |
| 2007 | Q1 | 1.99 million bpd |
| 2008 | Q1 | 2.12 million bpd |
| 2009 | Q1 | 2.34 million bpd |
| 2010 | Q2 | 2.61 million bpd |
Note: Operating Capacities are 5 % higher
In today’s marketplace, supply projections are being revised downward and thus our activities are focused on optimizing the use of tankage facilities and pipelines. In addition, discussions are taking place with our customers on new tolling models which reflect the current business environment. The Canadian Incentive Tolling Agreement expires at the end of 2009 and is currently being re-negotiated.
The following summarizes the various initiatives and their progress:
Southern Access Expansion
This Edmonton to Griffith multiphase expansion program will complete into Flanagan at the end of Q1 2009 increasing the capacity out of Superior by 400,000 bpd initially and ultimately by 1,200,000 bpd. The program includes:
- Two phases of horsepower expansions upstream of Superior which completed in 2008;
- 745 km (463 miles) of 42-inch pipe between Superior and Flanagan completing in 2009;
- Reversal of 120 km (75 miles) of 22-inch diameter pipe between Flanagan and Chicago completing in 2009.
4.0 million barrels of linefill will be required to complete the program in 2009.
More information about Southern Access Expansion
Alberta Clipper
This Edmonton to Superior expansion program complements the Southern Access expansion. Construction activities in 2008 and 2009 will culminate in a mid-2010 completion adding 450,000 bpd of capacity out of Western Canada. This program includes 1600 km (990 miles) of 36-inch diameter pipe.
6.3 million barrels of linefill will be required upon its completion.
More information about Alberta Clipper
Line 2 Expansion
A 500 km (313 mile) pipeline between Cromer and Clearbrook (Light Sour Line) along with mainline pump stations was completed at the end of 2008. The project increased Line 2 capacity to more than replace Line 13 capacity which will be put into Southern Lights service. The cost for this expansion is borne by the Southern Lights project.
Line 13 will be turned over to Southern Lights by July 1, 2010 or when Alberta Clipper goes into service, whichever is earlier.
Line 4 Extension
This expansion project adds an additional pipeline between Edmonton and Hardisty enabling the movement of new synthetics and heavy crudes from new oil sands projects that ship to Edmonton. The project includes 135 km (85 miles) of 36-inch diameter pipe, terminal connections at Edmonton and three pump stations. It will match the Line 4 capacity of 880,000 bpd. It will complete at the end of Q1 2009 and require 819,000 barrels of linefill.
Line 3 Conversion
As light supply builds it is expected that Line 3 will be converted to light service. The Edmonton to Hardisty section will be operational March 31, 2009. Timing and scope of the Hardisty to Superior section is currently being evaluated.
Tankage & Terminaling
New oil sands projects with new and expanded feeder systems into Edmonton require new connections at Edmonton. The requirement for these facilities and associated tankage is being evaluated with our customers. An initiative to evaluate commingling of crudes to minimize the addition of new facilities is underway and should be completed by the end of the 2009.
Pipeline Expansions
With less aggressive supply forecasts the need for incremental pipeline facilities is diminished. The pipelines that are expected to operate close to capacity in 2009 and 2010 include Line 5 (Superior to Sarnia), Line 6b (Griffith to Sarnia) and the pipelines feeding and exiting Griffith. The potential reversal of Line 9 continues to be evaluated and depends on firming up of supply and market requirements.
System Optimization
Enbridge is reviewing various approaches to maximize value to its customers. These approaches include system optimization to reduce capital and operating costs and responsive tolling models to reflect the current business environment. Discussions are expected to continue with customers through 2009 to identify and develop appropriate solutions.