VANCOUVER — A recommendation is expected today from the National Energy Board regarding Kinder Morgan's proposed Trans Mountain pipeline expansion.
The board will reveal whether it supports plans to triple the capacity of the pipeline, which carries diluted bitumen from the oilsands near Edmonton to Burnaby, B.C., for export.
If approved, the contentious project would add nearly 1,200 kilometres of new and reactivated pipeline and would expand the West Marine Terminal on Burrard Inlet.
Opponents such as Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson have argued that an expanded pipeline would greatly increase the odds of a oil spill in the region, with disastrous environmental ramifications.
But backers say the project would bring many economic benefits, including jobs, revenue and royalties.
A positive recommendation from the energy board would clear a major hurdle facing the development, while a decision from the federal government is expected by the end of the year.
