DAN CEARNS, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, for The Standard
KAWARTHA LAKES: Over 3,900 homes and businesses in Bobcaygeon will soon be able to connect to natural gas services. At a virtual announcement on Thursday, June 10th, provincial officials announced, a natural gas expansion project in Bobcaygeon had been approved for funding, from the second phase of the Province’s Natural Gas Expansion Program.
The funds provided to this project by the government total $68,029,650.
“This investment will help more people and families utilize natural gas,” MPP Laurie Scott explained. “Households can save dollars in annual energy costs when making the switch to natural gas. Businesses can also expect to see savings on their energy costs per year. There’s no doubt this investment will help make life more affordable in Bobcaygeon, sooner rather than later.”
Enbridge Gas is expected to begin construction on this project in 2023, contingent on regulatory approvals being in place.
“Enbridge Gas will be able to provide much needed and wanted natural gas to more than 3,900, forecasted, residential and business customers, [while] providing energy savings, supporting jobs, attracting local investment and supporting Ontario’s growth and recovery,” said Cynthia Hansen, Enbridge’s Executive Vice President and President of the Gas Distribution and Storage division. Kawartha Lakes Mayor Andy Letham stated, this announce-ment is exciting for local residents.
“Expanding access to natural gas provides an alternative source of energy [which is] clean and affordable for residents and businesses in Bobcaygeon. On behalf of Council, I’d like to thank the Province, and our MPP Laurie Scott, who has been a champion of helping Kawartha Lakes with the infrastructure support needed to continue to enhance services for residents.”