Duke Energy’s Algonquin Gas Transmission announced an openseason for its proposed HubLine Pipeline last week. Algonquin beganreceiving offers for capacity on the 600,000 Dth/d HubLine, whichwill connect Algonquin to the proposed Maritimes & Northeastpipeline, on July 20. It will conclude Aug. 12. Service is expectedto commence in 2002 and nominations for services starting atdifferent periods will be accepted and evaluated. If this openseason is deemed successful, Duke will file the project at FERCbefore the end of this year.

The $300 million HubLine project would extend from a MaritimesPipeline connection in Plaistow, NH, under water along the easternseaboard of the Massachusetts Bay for 24 miles to link withexisting Algonquin facilities near Boston. Gas would be transportedat a pressure of 1,200 psi, which is high enough to accommodate allelectric turbines, Algonquin said. Shippers would have access toSable Island gas through Maritimes, domestic supply throughAlgonquin’s existing system and possibly LNG from Algonquin’sliquefaction facilities near Boston.

“The recent electric power peak demand throughout the Northeastdemonstrates the need for additional clean and efficient gas-firedgeneration in the Northeast. HubLine offers a unique opportunity tobring new high pressure gas supplies deep into the market,increasing operating efficiencies and flexibility,” said TomO’Connor, vice president of marketing for Duke Energy’s NortheastPipelines.

The HubLine project was first announced in April of last year.O’Connor said market timing was the main reason why an open seasonwas not held sooner. “After announcing the project, we workedclosely with the market-makers on demand and timing issues. As wegot feedback, we realized that the best time for an in-service datewas in 2002, which makes now a good time to hold the open season.Also, the past year has brought a higher level of certainty anddefinition to the Maritimes project, which was a factor as well.”

For more information about the HubLine open season call PatWhitty at (617) 560-1447. John Norris

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