Major step towards construction for Enbridge’s Line 5 Wisconsin Segment Relocation Project as Wisconsin DNR issues permits

November 14, 2024

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued its Section 401 Water Quality Certification and state permits. This is a major step towards construction for the Line 5 Segment Relocation Project which will keep affordable and reliable energy flowing to Wisconsin and the Great Lakes Region.

A permitting process involving nearly five years of public input, expert study and rigorous review has resulted in thorough and comprehensive permits, and a project that is good for Wisconsin’s environment and economy. Enbridge already has a Wisconsin contractor on board, a signed Project Labor Agreement, and landowner agreements in place—we are ready to start building as soon as final federal permits are in hand.

The project will build a new segment of the Line 5 pipeline around the Bad River Reservation, send millions of dollars in construction spending into local communities, create over 700 family supporting union jobs, and preserve the flow of essential energy that millions of consumers in the region rely on every day.

The DNR has studied the proposed route and agrees the proposed 41-mile route is the least impactful to the environment, while protecting natural and cultural resources.

Enbridge applied for permits for the project in 2020. Federal permitting continues to move forward. Construction will begin as soon as all necessary permits and approvals are received.