Spectra Energy has launched an open season to solicit participation in the expansion of raw natural gas transmission capacity in the Fort Nelson area of northeast British Columbia, where the gas-rich Horn River Basin is located.

Spectra in February proposed expanding its gas gathering system to accommodate growing production in the Grizzly Valley area of the province (see Daily GPI, Feb. 13). The proposed project would be part of a third phase of expansion related to the company’s Pine River facility to allow more incremental raw gas to flow to its Pine River Gas Plant near Chetwynd, BC.

“Given producer expectations for Horn River Basin shale gas development and production, we are holding this open season to evaluate the need for additional raw gas transmission services connected with our existing Fort Nelson processing plant,” said Duane Rae, vice president, field services, Spectra Energy Transmission West.

Just days ago Spectra launched plans to build a large-scale integrated carbon capture and storage project near the Fort Nelson plant. The project would be a partnership between Spectra and the BC provincial government, which provided a $3.4 million grant to fund an initial feasibility plan.

“We feel our existing Fort Nelson processing capacity is well positioned to assist Horn River Basin producers to maximize their gas production,” Rae said. “We are seeking clarification of customer requirements in order to evaluate our options to expand our gathering system. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that raw gas transmission capacity will be available in a timely fashion.”

Interested parties must submit a nomination form before the open season closes at 4 p.m. MDT on June 13. To obtain a nomination form or more information, contact Doug Deeprose at (403) 699-1735 or ddeeprose@spectraenergy.com.

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