The Canadian Council of Chief Executives (CCCE) today welcomed the announcement by TransCanada Corporation that it has lined up sufficient customers for its proposed Energy East pipeline and will now move to the next stage of development of the project‎.

“Canada’s business leaders recognize the need to strengthen and expand the country’s energy infrastructure in order to take full advantage of the economic potential represented by Canada’s diverse array of energy assets,” said The Honourable John Manley, President and Chief Executive Officer of the CCCE.

“The Energy East project can be an important addition to that national landscape. Modern and high quality pipelines, electricity transmission lines and other infrastructure are critical to ensuring that Canadians have access to reliable and affordable energy, to strengthening the nation’s energy security, and to expanding our export opportunities.”