Ontario Premier Doug Ford visited Leamington on Friday to announce the start of construction by Enbridge Gas on its $358 million Panhandle Regional Expansion Project in the southwest region. The province expects this project to secure approximately 7,000 jobs and enable $4.5 billion in investment opportunities in Ontario.
The project involves constructing about 19 kilometres of new pipeline to parallel the existing one, significantly increasing the capacity of Enbridge’s Panhandle Transmission System. Officials highlight that this pipeline expansion is a crucial investment in energy infrastructure, fostering economic development in Southwestern Ontario and supporting the growth of the region’s leading greenhouse industry.
Speaking on AM800’s The Shift with Patty Handysides, Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification, remarked on the province’s current growth surge. “It’s a good challenge to have, and so we’re leading with an affordable natural gas expansion. This will help many farmers, greenhouses, and families save money with reliable energy,” he said.
Lecce emphasized that building infrastructure attracts both local and international investment. “For many relying on baseboard heating, switching to natural gas offers a 50 per cent savings. Compared to heating oil, a much dirtier option, it’s a 69 per cent savings, and roughly 50 per cent savings for propane users. This expansion means more savings and reliable energy delivery as communities grow.”
He noted that the new pipeline will run parallel to existing infrastructure, significantly boosting capacity to support regional growth. “The $358 million expansion by Enbridge will create around 7,000 jobs. Expanding capacity is crucial for securing future jobs and investments. This project involves adding 19 kilometres of new pipeline.”
The Panhandle Regional Expansion Project is part of Ontario’s efforts to meet its growing energy demands. In May 2024, the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) granted Enbridge Gas approval to proceed with the project. The project aims to be operational by November 1, 2024, with additional construction to be completed in 2025.
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