Ontario Businesses Applaud Agreement Between TransCanada, Enbridge Gas Distribution and Union Gas

TORONTO, Aug. 24, 2015 /CNW/ - In response to news that TransCanada's Energy East Pipeline project has reached an agreement with Ontario and Quebec distributors to guarantee long-term savings for natural gas consumers, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters today welcomed the announcement.

"As representatives of Ontario's business community, we applaud TransCanada and Ontario's gas companies, Enbridge Gas Distribution and Union Gas, for working together to ensure we continue to have access to a reliable and affordable supply of natural gas to power Ontario's economy," said Allan O'Dette, President and Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Chamber of Commerce. "We know that the Energy East project already represents a significant economic benefit for Ontario in terms of new jobs and economic growth – it should also now mean long-term savings for Ontario's natural gas users, including Ontario businesses."

"For manufacturers in Ontario, the price of energy is a deciding factor in whether to expand or invest in our province. I'm pleased to see TransCanada has offered a solution that is a win-win for all involved," said Ian Howcroft, Ontario Vice President, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters. "Today's agreement means Ontario's natural gas consumers will not be impacted by Energy East, and that Energy East will help Canada achieve energy independence."

Both the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters are united by an interest in building a stronger Ontario, and support the long-term benefits of Energy East recognizing the project is subject to extensive evaluation by the National Energy Board.

SOURCE Ontario Chamber of Commerce

Michelle Kelly, Senior Communications Advisor, Ontario Chamber of Commerce, 416-482-5222 ext. 2410; Ian Howcroft, Vice President, CME Ontario, [phone]