EPA and DOJ settle with Enbridge over 2010 oil spills in Michigan and Illinois

Enbridge Energy Limited Partnership and several related companies recently reached a settlement agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Justice (DOJ) over 2010 oil spills in Marshall, Michigan and Romeoville, Illinois.

“This settlement will make the delivery of our nation’s energy resources safer and more environmentally responsible,” Assistant Attorney General John C. Cruden from the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division said. “It requires Enbridge to take robust measures to improve the maintenance and monitoring of its Lakehead pipeline system, protecting lakes, rivers, land and communities across the upper Midwest, as well as pay a significant penalty."

In addition to civil penalties totalling $62 million, Enbridge will implement spill prevention measures, including an enhanced inspection program and leak detection measures, at a cost of at least $110 million. The company will also reimburse the government more than $59 million for cleanup costs.

“This agreement puts in place advanced leak detection and monitoring requirements to make sure a disaster like this one doesn’t happen again," EPA Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Assistant Administrator Cynthia Giles said. "This comprehensive program — including an independent third party to audit compliance — will protect our waterways and the people who depend on them."