OTTAWA, Oct. 31, 2016 /CNW/ – The development of our natural resources creates middle-class jobs, spurs innovation and contributes to the quality of life of Canadians.
Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable Jim Carr, today announced the Government of Canada’s decision to approve the 2017 NOVA Gas Transmission Ltd. (NGTL) System Expansion Project, subject to 36 binding conditions.
The $1.3-billion 2017 NGTL project will create up to 3,000 jobs during construction, address the need for increased natural gas transmission capacity along the existing NGTL system and support economic growth in Alberta and across the country. More than 90 percent of the project will parallel existing roads and pipelines.
In January, the Government announced a set of interim principles to guide decisions on major projects already being reviewed while longer-term reforms to regulatory processes are underway. The 2017 NGTL project was assessed using the interim principles. In making its decision, the Government took into consideration the National Energy Board’s recommendation report on the project, Environment and Climate Change Canada’s assessment of upstream greenhouse gas emissions, the views of Canadians gathered through an online questionnaire and enhanced consultations with Indigenous peoples. The outcomes of all of these processes are available to Canadians.
Quick Facts
- The project involves the construction and operation of new gas pipeline facilities in northern Alberta as part of its existing NGTL System.
- The expansion includes five pipeline section loops, totaling approximately 230 kilometres, and the addition of two compressor station units.
- Approximately 91 percent of the project will parallel existing pipelines and roads.
Quote
“The twin imperatives of economic prosperity and environmental protection guided us in our decision-making and I am confident the right decision was made in the interest of Canadians and that this project supports the principles of sustainable development.”
Jim Carr, Canada‘s Minister of Natural Resources
