Energy fuels Fourth of July traditions

Pipelines provide for essentials, recreation

June 29, 2022

As is tradition, many across the United States are preparing to fire up the grill, consume approximately 150 million hot dogs, line parade routes, and spend $755 million on fireworks to celebrate the Country’s July 4 Independence Day.

At the heart of those celebrations will be products—from the propane that lights the grill to the fireworks that illuminate the night sky—made from light crude and natural gas liquids transported through the Country’s energy network.

Since its 1776 birthday, the U.S. has emerged as the largest producer of natural gas and oil in the world, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). 

Each day, the United States produces 18.8 million barrels of oil per day. 

“Often without realizing it, people rely on pipelines to transport the energy that heats their homes, powers business, fuels transportation, and provides the raw materials essential to manufacturing,” said Bob Lehto, Enbridge’s operations manager for the northern Michigan area.

“Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac is part of that network and critical to Michigan’s energy stability.”

For nearly seven decades, Michiganders and the region have relied on Line 5. More than half the state receives its propane from Line 5, and at least 65 percent of the Upper Peninsula relies on the pipeline to meet propane demand.

Recognizing the role of Line 5 in providing the region a reliable source of energy, Enbridge is planning to construct the Great Lakes Tunnel.  Placed deep below the lakebed of the Straits, the concrete tunnel will house a replacement section of Line 5. The Tunnel will eliminate the chance of an anchor strike to it and reduce the chance of a release to near zero.

“Our energy network, including Line 5, helps fuel the country,” said Lehto.

“It provides the essentials for daily life.  As we enhance our pipeline system today, we continue to focus on energy options for the future, working toward renewable energy on which the Country can continue to rely.”

Lehto encourages everyone to have a safe, enjoyable Fourth of July!