AIMCo acquires Coastal GasLink Pipeline Project stake

The agreement represents a unique opportunity for AIMCo’s clients to gain greater geographic diversification within the infrastructure portfolio through the acquisition of a critical Canadian-based infrastructure asset that will provide feed gas to the country’s first west coast LNG export facility, the US$40 billion LNG Canada project, which is currently under construction.

Coastal GasLink involves the construction of 670 km of pipeline and associated facilities. Once completed, the pipeline will have an initial capacity of 2.1 billion ft³/d and connect abundant Western Canada Sedimentary Basin natural gas supply from the Dawson Creek, B.C. area to the LNG Canada liquefaction and export facility being constructed in Kitimat, B.C. All necessary regulatory permits have been received for the project and construction activities have commenced with the completion of Phase I of the project targeted for early 2023. Phase II of the project, if sanctioned, is expected to more than double the capacity of the pipeline through the installation of additional compressor stations.

“It is gratifying that we have the opportunity to further strengthen our existing relationship with TC Energy through the acquisition of this stake in the Coastal GasLink pipeline, on behalf of AIMCo’s clients,” said Ben Hawkins, Senior Vice President, Infrastructure & Renewable Resources at AIMCo. “We look forward to working with the management of TC Energy, a recognised leader in the responsible development and reliable operation of energy infrastructure, to achieve the full potential of this project.”

“The Coastal GasLink pipeline represents a critical component of Western Canada’s ability to meaningfully realise the value of its vast natural gas resources, while supporting the coal-to-gas energy transition currently underway globally,” added Kevin Uebelein, AIMCo Chief Executive Officer. “AIMCo is committed to meeting the long-term return objectives of our clients, and by partnering with TC Energy, we are meeting those aims alongside a great Canadian company.”

Following the closing of the transaction, TC Energy will hold a 35% limited partnership equity interest in Coastal GasLink and will retain control of the general partner.

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquefaction/02012020/aimco-acquires-coastal-gaslink-pipeline-project-stake/