Did you know? The U.S. pipeline system is the largest in world
Line 5 plays a pivotal role
March 24, 2021
Oil, natural gas, refined products and water pipelines crisscross the U.S. and are pivotal to the daily routines that keep America moving. In fact, the U.S. has the largest system in the world. Tied into this pipeline system is Line 5, which is “the” source of propane for Michigan—and provides light crude that’s turned into jet fuel and thousands of other consumer products.
There are all kinds and sizes of pipelines. From smaller, local distribution lines that go directly into houses and other buildings, to large-diameter interstate transmission lines, such as Line 5, that serve as a major “highway” to transport energy, pipelines keep the energy flowing, day in and day out.
There are other differences too
Various federal and state agencies either must approve, or issue permits to authorize construction of the various pipelines.
Depending on the type and size of a pipeline, as many as 50 federal, state and regional agencies can be involved in an application and permitting process related to pipeline construction.
“There is awareness of our need for energy, particularly during hot summers and frigid winters when we are adjusting the thermostat,” said Bob Lehto, Enbridge area operations manager for northern Michigan.
“In general, though, there isn’t a strong understanding of what it takes to safely and reliably deliver the energy products that everyone depends on. It is an extensive process that starts with pipeline design and continues through operation.”
Pipelines may be overseen by multiple agencies
For intrastate transmission pipelines that move product solely within the borders of a state, a state’s utility commission retains overall safety and regulation.
For Line 5, and other interstate transmission lines, the responsibility for safety and regulatory oversight rests at the federal level, with the U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, known as PHMSA. While PHMSA has ultimate regulatory oversight of interstate pipelines, is not the only federal agency involved with oversight of the U.S. pipeline system.
“PHMSA is the primary federal pipeline safety authority,” explains Lehto, “though the U.S. Department of Homeland Security coordinates efforts to help prevent tampering or sabotage of all transportation-related operations, including pipelines. The U.S. Department of Energy also plays a prominent role in overseeing that our country’s energy network is capable of providing ample supply to meet daily demand—even during peak periods.”
PHMSA has repeatedly affirmed Line 5 is safe
When it comes to Line 5, PHMSA retains jurisdictional oversight over the pipeline and other liquids lines in the U.S.
“The U.S. pipeline network is essential to Michigan and our country, well beyond meeting the critical needs of heating and the production of transportation fuel,” said Lehto. “We have a great responsibility to our country, and in particular, this region. As such, we work with multiple agencies to fulfill Line 5’s prominent role in providing refineries and manufacturers the light crude oil and petroleum products vital to producing thousands of items, including the vaccines, masks and medical devices we are using to combat COVID-19. We do not take our role in America’s or Michigan’s health and well-being for granted.”
As such, Lehto reiterates that Line 5’s overarching role and Enbridge’s commitment to safety are among two of the main drivers for constructing the Great Lakes Tunnel.
“While PHMSA has repeatedly affirmed that Line 5 is safe and fit for service, Enbridge remains committed to building the Great Lakes Tunnel,” said Lehto.
“The Great Lakes Tunnel will eliminate the risk of an anchor strike and increase overall safety and environmental protections for Line 5 in the Straits,” added Lehto. “Equally important, it will help the region’s residents and businesses to continue to count on a safe and reliable Line 5 pipeline network to meet their many daily needs like it has done for more than 65 years.”
(TOP PHOTO: Enbridge's North American pipeline network.)
