The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) ruled 4 to 1 Thursday rejecting the Minnesota Department of Commerce’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Enbridge’s proposed Line 3 Pipeline replacement project. The ruling is a setback for the project that will provide a $2 billion-dollar economic boost for greater Minnesota and will require the Department of Commerce to reopen their review process to reconfigure three elements of the project that the PUC deemed inadequate.

“Over the past four years Enbridge has worked collaboratively with the Department of Commerce to develop a comprehensive Environmental Impact Study that would the merit of the PUC and benefit Minnesota both environmentally and economically,” said Sen. Justin Eichorn (R-Grand Rapids). “This process has been rigorous and has included over 1,500 meetings with local stakeholders along with ample opportunity for Minnesotans to share their input. While yesterday’s decision is unfortunate, it showed that the overwhelming majority of the EIS is environmentally sound.  I look forward to Enbridge and Department of Commerce addressing PUC’s outlined inadequacies so that the project can continue to move on track towards final PUC approval.”

Built nearly 60 years ago Enbridge’s Line 3 currently operates at 50 percent of capacity. With the proposed replacement line that volume would increase, but would include significantly increased safety standers and environmental protections.   The proposed project would also result in a significant economic boost for communities in greater Minnesota along the energy corridor. A recent study by the University of Minnesota Duluth determined the project would bring in $2 billion in direct and spinoff spending. Additionally, the project would create 8,600 jobs with a payroll of $344 million over two years and increase property tax revenue by an additional $19.5 million annually.  Furthermore, upon completion, the project will provide Minnesotans with additional avenues for affordable energy which critical to businesses and our state’s economy.

The Department of Commerce now has 60 days to turn in the amended review, in which it will address the PUC’s concerns on topography, drinking water impacts, and the additive nature of environmental impacts.