Decking the halls requires energy

All types of energy are needed

Dec. 14, 2022

Festive light shows dot the map in small towns and large cities alike throughout Michigan and the U.S.

Lifesize nativity scenes adorn lawns.

Whether decking the halls with boughs of holly, hanging bright lights that rival those in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation or adorning the yard with an inflatable snowman or grinch, many Americans embrace the holiday spirit.

According to surveys, 84% of people across the U.S. indicate they decorate, with 94 percent sharing that decorating is one of their family traditions.

 

“Whether traveling in the air or on the ground, Line 5 transports the fuel that will help us get there.”

—Kate Houchard, Enbridge’s operations manager for the Great Lakes Region

Amid the hustle and bustle, few realize the natural gas liquids and light crude oil transported through Enbridge Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac are essential to the holiday season.

“Santa’s sleigh might be self-guided with some help from Rudolph, though the rest of us rely on fuel from Line 5 in the Straits,” said Kate Houchard, CMRP, Enbridge's operations manager for the Great Lakes Region. “Whether traveling in the air or on the ground, Line 5 transports the fuel that will help us get there.”

In addition to fuel, the festive bags, wrapping paper and shiny stickers and bows rely on dyes, inks and fabrics Line 5 helps make possible, as do most of the gifts.

“The natural gas liquids we transport safely each day through Line 5 are vital not only to the manufacturing process, but also for trucks, planes and other vehicles that deliver items to stores and to households,” said Houchard. “Cameras, video consoles, games, toys, clothes, stuffed animals, phones, even fruitcake—all rely on Line 5.”

Houchard shares that while Line 5 is important to the holidays, it has an even bigger role throughout the year.

“Line 5 is vital to meeting the propane, fuel and manufacturing needs throughout the year,” said Houchard. “While we are glad Line 5 is able to be part of Christmas and family traditions, we are even prouder of our commitment to continuing to operate Line 5 safely all year.”

“On behalf of Enbridge, we wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season!”