Vector Pipeline LP will hold a non-binding open season beginning Sept. 1 through Sept. 30 for bids on firm capacity for a 2006 mainline expansion project for the natural gas transmission pipeline. The 349-mile pipeline system, which was constructed in 2000, currently transports approximately 1 Bcf/d and has the ability to increase this capacity up to 1.5 Bcf/d by constructing additional compressor stations.

“This open season is driven by interest from markets either seeking alternative supply, new incremental supply or reduced long-haul commitments,” said John Donaldson, vice president of marketing. “Vector offers a direct conduit for the diversified supply sourced from the Chicago Hub for delivery to storage and markets in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and southwest Ontario — and farther east through downstream pipelines.”

Donaldson added that by expanding with compression, “Vector will be able to time and size an economical project to meet these markets’ needs as early as Nov. 1, 2006.”

The Vector pipeline begins at Joliet, IL, and ends at the storage complex at Dawn, ON. It has multiple interconnections, which include Alliance, Northern Border, Guardian (late 2004), ANR, NIPSCO, Crossroads, Consumers Energy, MichCon, DTE Washington 10 Storage, Bluewater Gas Storage (fall 2004) and Union Gas. Two power plants also are tied into the Vector system: Crete Energy Ventures and Kinder Morgan-Jackson. The pipeline is a joint venture between Calgary-based Enbridge Inc., which holds 60% interest, and Detroit-based DTE Energy Co.

Interested parties should contact Donaldson at (734) 462-0238, Matt Malinowski at (734) 462-0236 or Amy Bruhn at (734) 462-0237. Information also will be posted on the company’s web site at https://www.vector-pipeline.com .

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