Enbridge is planning an expansion of a major natural gas pipeline into New England, setting the stage for a political battle over the future of the Northeast’s energy system just as the midterm election season heats up. The Calgary-based pipeline company recently briefed the National Energy Dominance Council on plans for an expansion of its Algonquin Gas Transmission line, according to a White House official. Enbridge is also briefing potential buyers on its plans, according to an industry official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive business matters. The official said the company’s efforts appear to be in their early stages. “The message was, ‘Get ready to do your modeling work,’” the person said. Details about the expansion are still unclear. But the mere prospect of expanding pipeline access is likely to be controversial in New England, where a pair of proposals to build new pipelines were abandoned nearly a decade ago after encountering fierce resistance. It also injects a new wrinkle into gubernatorial races in New England, where a trio of Democratic governors seeking reelection are under mounting pressure to address some of the country’s highest energy prices. Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee have all pledged to green their states’ economies but have also signaled openness to backing new pipeline projects in the face of rising energy prices.

https://www.eenews.net/articles/enbridge-proposes-expansion-of-new-england-pipeline/