The Canadian inlet to the proposed Portland Natural GasTransmission System has received approval from the National EnergyBoard, in time for completion on schedule this Nov. 1. Titled thePNGTS Extension, the route will be built by Trans Quebec &Maritimes Pipeline Inc. from a connection with the TransCanadasystem in eastern Quebec at Lachenaie to an exit into New Hampshireat East Hereford.

“Canadian approval of the TQM Extension is the final majorregulatory authorization for which we have been waiting,” saidMichael A. Minkos, president of PNGTS Operating. “More than 100,000tons of PNGTS-related pipe is arriving this month, and we remain onschedule to begin construction later this spring.”

The plan calls for export deliveries on the C$273.8 million,132-mile line to start at 152 MMcf/d this fall, then rise to 210MMcf/d in the second year of operation. The project is alsodesigned to drop off 48.7 MMcf/d in eastern Quebec, filling a gapin domestic Canadian markets.

In approving the project, the NEB stressed that Canada’senvironment, fisheries and oceans ministries did not object andleft decisions on sensitive water and island crossings up to theboard. It was satisfied with the project’s plans to mitigatedamages.

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