Energy helps fuel holiday traditions
Line 5 plays an important role
Dec. 13, 2023
Lights sparkle in most towns across Michigan. Larger-than-life inflatable snowmen adorn lawns.
Dreidels. Popular plush stuffed animals. That coveted doll in her pink car.
On multiple levels and in the most literal sense, this time of year takes energy.
Traditions run the gamut, though one has transcended decades—the quest for the perfect gift, in particular, that “must have” toy atop a child’s list.
For 2023, toys are expected to comprise 37% of all holiday spending, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF), a trade association. The NRF projects that books, video games and other media will account for 31% of gift giving.
“Product transported safely every day from Enbridge Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac provides the building blocks essential to the manufacture of more than 6,000 items, including toys, dolls, action figures, board and electronic games, miniature kitchen sets, and thousands of other items,” said Lauren Brown, Enbridge community engagement advisor, who’s based in the Straits.
“The natural gas liquids and crude oil transported through Line 5 are critical to both the production and transport of toys and other items.”
“For Michiganders and this region, Line 5 is essential not only during the holiday season, but also throughout the year.”
—Lauren Brown, Enbridge’s community engagement manager in northern Michigan
Line 5 is important today, tomorrow
Line 5 transports the crude oil that area refineries use to make diesel and other fuels that power the delivery of toys on the ground and in the air.
“For Michiganders and this region, Line 5 is essential not only during the holiday season, but also throughout the year,” said Brown.
“Line 5 addresses the very basic needs—home heat, transportation fuel—that helps keep people warm, delivers food to the door and helps in the manufacture of medicine, clothing, eyewear, vaccines, and thousands of other items.”
On Dec. 1, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) approved by a 2-0 vote a critical permit necessary to advance Enbridge’s Great Lakes Tunnel Project in the Straits. The MPSC’s decision follows approximately four years of review and input provided by Michiganders.
More than 70% of Michiganders support construction of the Tunnel, which will enable Michiganders and the region to continue to receive the energy from Line 5 on which they rely while reducing to zero chance of a release into the waterways.
“We are proud to play a role in holiday traditions,” said Brown, “and even prouder that the region can continue to depend on Enbridge to keep Line 5 operating safely well beyond the holiday season.
“We wish everyone a safe, happy holiday season with family and friends.”
