Enbridge Inc. is advancing plans to expand its North American pipeline network following strong demand for additional capacity to transport Canadian crude to U.S. refineries.The Calgary-based pipeline operator said Friday its recent “open season” commercial process for the Flanagan South pipeline was oversubscribed, indicating robust shipper interest in moving more Canadian oil south.Chief executive Greg Ebel said the successful process brings Canada’s largest pipeline company closer to formally approving expansion of its Mainline system, which moves 3 million barrels of crude daily and represents critical infrastructure for the country’s energy sector.“The strong demand we’re seeing from U.S. Gulf Coast refiners for Canadian crude validates our strategic positioning,” Ebel said, adding the company expects to make a final investment decision on the first phase by year-end.The proposed expansion would add 150,000 barrels of daily capacity, supporting increased production from Canada’s oil sands operations. The Flanagan South line, stretching 593 miles from Illinois to Oklahoma, serves as a crucial link connecting Canadian crude to U.S. refining centres.Ebel noted the Mainline system has operated in apportionment — where demand exceeds available space — for six of the first eight months of 2025, underscoring the need for additional capacity as Canadian production grows.Canada, the world’s fourth-largest oil producer, is projected to increase oil sands output to 3.8 million barrels daily by 2030, representing a 15-per-cent jump from current levels, according to S&P Global.The expansion comes as Canada’s energy sector navigates ongoing trade tensions with the United States while seeking to maximize export opportunities for its crude resources.However, Ebel suggested new pipeline projects to overseas markets remain unlikely without changes to federal environmental policies. Earlier this year, he called for “National Interest” designations for major pipeline infrastructure to help revive stalled projects, including Enbridge’s cancelled Northern Gateway line.The development highlights the ongoing importance of pipeline infrastructure to Canada’s energy economy, with Enbridge’s network serving as the primary conduit for moving Canadian crude to key North American markets. (ICE TORONTO)

Fonte notizia: https://www.cpecn.com/