The first phase of Enbridge Gas Ontario’s Panhandle Regional Expansion Project is now in service in Southwestern Ontario, home to a world-leading greenhouse industry, Enbridge officials announced on Thursday, January 9, 2025.
This investment in energy infrastructure, ultimately more than $358-million, will provide the increased capacity to support economic growth and development and stimulate an anticipated $4.5-billion in investments and local jobs, Enbridge officials added.
The new pipeline will also deliver reliable energy to electricity generation facilities in the area.
This energy is required to help meet Ontario’s growing energy demands due to increasing electrification and strong population and economic growth.
Access to a resilient, dependable energy supply ensures investments in large-scale manufacturing projects can be made with confidence.
The project includes 19 kilometers of new pipeline, 36 inches in diameter, installed alongside an existing corridor extending from Lakeshore to Chatham-Kent.
“Ontario’s economic prosperity hinges on the accessibility of resilient, cost-effective energy sources like natural gas,” stated Brian Johnson, General Manager and SVP, Enbridge Gas Ontario, in a media release.
“This project exemplifies Enbridge Gas’ commitment to meeting these needs and the demand for natural gas from businesses and industries that are the backbone of Ontario’s economy. It is also a prime example of the strong collaboration between businesses, governments, regulators, stakeholders and communities that will be required to meet Ontario’s increasing energy needs in the years to come.”
Enbridge officials say additional work in 2025 is expected to include construction at the nearby Dawn Hub, enabling connection to Ontario’s underground natural gas storage facilities.
The Dawn Hub plays a crucial role in providing reliable and resilient natural gas supply to the Company’s residential, commercial and industrial customers, Enbridge officials added.
“The Panhandle Regional Expansion Project is a game-changer for families and businesses in Southwestern Ontario,” stated Stephen Lecce, Ontario Minister of Energy and Electrification, in a media release.
“This project will ensure access to reliable and affordable energy, supporting local communities, attracting investments, and creating 7,000 good-paying jobs. Our government is delivering affordable energy families need to power their homes, fuel their businesses and greenhouses, and support a thriving local economy.”
Additional details on this project are available on the Enbridge Gas project webpage at enbridgegas.com/panhandle.
