8-K

ENBRIDGE INC 8-K Report (Jun 2, 2014)

Filed June 2, 2014For Securities:ENBENBMFEBBGFEBRGFEBRZFENBGFENBRFENFFFEBGEFENBFFENBHFENBNFENBOFENBSFEBBNFENNPF

Summary

Enbridge Inc. (ENB) announced the commissioning of the Blackspring Ridge Wind Project in Vulcan County, Alberta, on May 12, 2014. This 300-megawatt (MW) project, a joint venture with EDF EN Canada, is the largest wind project development in Western Canada and represents a significant investment of approximately CAD $0.6 billion. The project reached commercial operation ahead of schedule, highlighting strong project execution. The Blackspring Ridge Wind Project is a key addition to Enbridge's growing renewable energy portfolio and supports its "Neutral Footprint" commitment. It is expected to generate over 1,000 GWh annually, enough to power approximately 140,000 homes, and will contribute substantial economic benefits to rural Alberta through job creation and local payments. Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) from the project are under a 20-year contract with Pacific Gas and Electric, while the electricity itself will be sold into the Alberta power pool.

Key Highlights

  • 1The 300 MW Blackspring Ridge Wind Project in Alberta has achieved commercial operation.
  • 2This project is the largest wind development in Western Canada, with an investment of approximately CAD $0.6 billion.
  • 3The project was completed and commissioned ahead of schedule.
  • 4Enbridge's renewable energy portfolio is expanded by this significant wind asset.
  • 5The project will generate over 1,000 GWh annually, serving an estimated 140,000 homes.
  • 6Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) are contracted to Pacific Gas and Electric for 20 years.
  • 7The project is expected to create over 350 construction jobs and 20 permanent operational roles, providing economic benefits to the local community.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Blackspring Ridge Wind Project is a significant addition to Enbridge's renewable energy portfolio, marking its third Alberta-based wind facility. It is the largest wind project in Western Canada and contributes to Enbridge's "Neutral Footprint" commitment by generating renewable energy equivalent to its conventional electricity consumption. The project's early completion also demonstrates strong operational execution.

The Blackspring Ridge Wind Project is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to rural Alberta. This includes the creation of over 350 jobs during the construction phase and 20 permanent jobs for operations and maintenance. Additionally, the project will generate increased tax revenues and lease payments to local landowners.

The electricity generated by the Blackspring Ridge Wind Project will be sold into the Alberta power pool. The Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) produced by the project have been contracted under a 20-year purchase agreement with Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E).

Enbridge is actively expanding its involvement in renewable and alternative energy. By the end of 2015, EDF EN Canada (a partner in this project) was set to have over 1,374 MW of wind and solar capacity in service in Canada. Enbridge's overall strategy includes growing its interests in wind, solar, and geothermal energy, aiming to generate a kilowatt of renewable energy for every additional kilowatt of conventional electricity its operations consume.