Prince George/Fraser Valley – FortisBC is warning consumers that 700,000 of its approximately one million gas customers could lose service as a result of Tuesday’s pipeline explosion north of Prince George. Fortunately no one was seriously hurt, but the pipeline had to be shut down for repairs. The cause of the blast has yet to be determined.
Some natural gas will be brought in from Alberta, but for the time being, FortisBC is asking that you turn off your thermostat for the time being and reduce overall usage.
National Energy Board inspectors have been sent to the scene. The NEB (National Energy Board) says the Transportation Safety Board will lead the investigation.
From the Fortis BC website:
There has been an incident with a natural gas transmission pipeline north of Prince George that feeds our system.
As a result of the incident affecting the Enbridge pipeline that feeds our system we are anticipating decreased energy flow and potential loss of service. FortisBC is requesting all of our natural gas customers across the province to turn off their thermostats as well as reduce use of all other natural gas appliances. We appreciate your assistance and patience.
If you smell gas, you need to leave the area and call the FortisBC 24-hour natural gas emergency line at 1-800-663-9911 or 911.
Although FortisBC’s system is not damaged, we are working hard to continue to provide the energy flow to your homes and businesses. We are monitoring the situation and will provide updates.
Michelle Mungall, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, has released the following statement about the fire on the natural gas line on Tuesday, October 9,:
“The National Energy Board investigating the fire that ignited yesterday on an Enbridge gas line near Prince George.
“Thankfully, no injuries occurred and the situation is now under control.
“My ministry is working with the BC Oil and Gas Commission and the National Energy Board to determine what happened. This investigation is in its early stages and we hope to find answers soon.
“As a result of this incident, Fortis BC is asking customers to avoid non-essential use of gas until the supply issue in the North is resolved. This can be as simple as turning down your thermostat or not turning on your fireplace or natural gas barbecue.
“I encourage everyone to visit FortisBC’s website for more details.”
