Enbridge Energy temporarily shut down Line 5 operations in the Straits of Mackinac Tuesday morning.
Under a new agreement with the state, Enbridge has to suspend Line 5 operations in the Straits during severe weather when waves reach eight feet or more.
That agreement also requires the energy company to ramp up efforts to prevent a spill.
The state released a statement Tuesday afternoon confirming the temporary suspension.
“The purpose of the State’s agreement with Enbridge was to find practical solutions to concerns we had about the operation of Line 5 and the safety of the Great Lakes,” said Valerie Brader, executive director of the Michigan Agency for Energy. “Enbridge’s action today shows the steps outlined in the plan will have immediate and long-term positive outcomes.”
In full disclosure, Enbridge Energy is a financial supporter of Michigan Radio.
