Examine the feasibility of electrifying a natural gas pipeline system: a case study on Enbridge’s Westcoast pipeline

Abstract

Climate change is an evolving global issue that needs all industries to act. This research aims to examine the feasibility of reducing operational-related (Greenhouse Gas) GHG emissions at natural gas transmission pipeline through electrification, using Westcoast pipeline in BC as the case study. The research evaluated the GHG reduction potential at the pipeline’s gas compressor stations under three electrification scenarios. A cost-benefit analysis was performed for each scenario and compared with baseline scenarios. All the data in the research were selected using publicly available data. The analysis suggests that electrification will significantly reduce GHG emissions at the Westcoast pipeline; however, all three scenarios would surpass baseline operational cost due to incremental electricity demand. Future uncertainties, such as changing carbon tax price, natural gas price, electricity price, and gas compressor maintenance cost, might shift the electrification project financial analysis results.