Enbridge Inc. says it will respond quickly to a request by a federal review panel for more information on its $5.5-billion Northern Gateway oil pipeline. The information is needed, says the panel, to determine if the project is in the public interest.
Enbridge says it expects to file the information by the end March.
The three-person federal panel said additional information on the pipeline design and risk assessment was needed because of the unique geographic location of the project and difficulty accessing to the pipeline.
The 1,170-kilometre pipeline would pass through northern Alberta and British Columbia, crossing more than 1,000 rivers and streams. Much of the terrain in Northern B.C. is mountainous, and the project includes two six-kilometre tunnels through the Coastal mountains.
"We are pleased to be able to provide the requested information to demonstrate the project can be built and operated safely," said Enbridge spokesperson Gina Jordan.
The three-person panel made the request for more information following input from three preliminary public sessions, one of which was held in Prince George.
Enbridge must submit the additional information before the review can move to the public hearing stage.
Among the other characteristics that make the project unique, the panel cited the pipeline's high flow rate.
The panel also noted there is far-reaching environmental and human consequences if there is a spill of oil or condensate in populated or environmentally-sensitive areas.
The twin oil and condensate pipeline -- which would pass just north of Prince George -- is meant to open up new markets for Alberta oil sands crude in Asia.
Opposition to the pipeline from environmental groups, First Nations and some municipalities has focused on the risks and impacts of an oil spill along the pipeline or from a tanker spill off the northwest coast.
