ENBRIDGE 2000 ANNU AL REPORT 11 NEW AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES Enbridge Gas New Brunswick Other Enbridge recognizes that to sustain its role as an industry leader, it must sustain its leadership in the development and use of relevant technologies. That includes technologies that keep the core businesses current, information technologies that can reshape business practices, and emerging energy technologies that can materially change energy requirements. Enbridge is currently working on a suite of technology-based initiatives that includes Internet-based crude oil trading, state- of-the-art customer information systems, pipeline control and interactive operator training systems, remote repair technologies for gas mains, and gas-to-liquids technology. To evaluate emerging technologies, Enbridge created a team called the Pathfinders Group. They were responsible for the strategic alliance with Global Thermoelectric to develop natural gas-fuelled fuel cell products for residential use. The alliance involves Enbridge in the development of a very significant new technology, and could become a tremendous business opportunity in a few years in terms of product and gas sales. A fuel cell is an electrochemical device that takes a fuel such as hydrogen or natural gas and combines it with oxygen to produce electric power, heat and water. Cells generate significantly lower emissions than combustion processes. They are environmentally friendly, and extremely efficient. If the product proves commercially viable, Enbridge has  exclusive distribution rights in Canada, and the Company’s gas transmission and distribution businesses would benefit as well. The Pathfinders Group is also evaluating opportunities for investments in other emerging technologies such as wind  power and microturbines. Enbridge owns and operates Cornwall Electric, which distributes electric power to the city of Cornwall and adjacent townships. Enbridge began construction in August 2000 on a gas distribution network for the province of New Brunswick. Through Enbridge Gas New Brunswick, which is 63% owned by Enbridge, the Company plans to invest approximately $300 million during a 20-year franchise period. Gas deliveries will begin this year for a number  of cities including Fredericton, Moncton and St. John, with an estimated 23 communities expected to be served within five years. interest in Gaz Métropolitain and Company, Limited Partnership, which is engaged in natural gas distribution in Quebec and Vermont. Gaz Métropolitain holds a 50% interest in TQM Pipeline & Company, Limited Partnership, which owns and operates a pipeline transporting gas in Quebec. Enbridge Consumers Gas (top left and centre) distributes gas to 1.5 million customers. In 2000, Enbridge Gas New Brunswick (above) began construction of its new provincial distribution network. Jim Perry, Global Thermoelectric President, and Pat Daniel, Enbridge President & CEO, opened Global’s new fuel cell production plant in December (top right).