baranski, stefan transcanada director turlA spokesman for TransCanada says it’s a myth that the Energy East pipeline that crosses near Trout Lake is old and prone to leaking.

Speaking to the North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce Thursday night, Stefan Baranski says it’s the newest portion, and not only exceeds standards, but is already a thicker pipe than other sections.

“It’s our newest line through the area and that’s the line we will be converting to oil service.”
He also say given the choice, Baranski says it’s the safer alternative compared to transporting oil by rail.

Meantime, he told Chamber of Commerce directors new technology called “Smart Pigs” will be a game changer in keeping this area safe from an oil spill.

Baranski says it essentially involves running tools inside the pipeline that will look at all of the elements that could impact the outside of the pipeline.

Baranski says the company now has letters of support from 32 municipalities and is close to agreement with Nipissing First Nation.

There are presently two shut-off valves, one above where it crosses Trout Lake and one below.  He says the number will increase to four when the natural gas pipeline is eventually converted to carry oil.

The Chamber of Commerce has already passed a resolution supporting TransCanada’s Energy East pipeline as long as the company takes precautions to protect the city’s drinking water supply.