Michigan holds key piece of puzzle

Enbridge Line 5 significant part of solving energy puzzle

Jan. 31, 2024

Consider the following key dates in U.S. history.

• Mapmaker John Spilsbury creates the first jigsaw puzzle in 1767.
• Puzzle mania sweeps the United States in 1908.
• During the Great Depression, puzzle sales in 1933 soared to 10 million per week.

Jigsaws, word searches, brain teasers, riddles, Sudoku – life is full of puzzles.

There are puzzles that people try to solve for fun.

Solving other puzzles commands the collective talents and skills of many, because completion of the puzzle is something on which people rely.

“Not only does product from Enbridge Line 5 in the Straits of Mackinac help in the manufacture of puzzles, it also is a main piece of a significant, interconnected energy puzzle,” said Mike Moeller, Enbridge’s director of the Great Lakes Region. 

“Ultimately, all of the following comes from our Line 5 pipeline: fuel for transportation, heat for homes and 6,000 plus products that help make everything from vehicles to clothing to medicine − Michigan and the region depend on Line 5.”

Much like Michiganders derive assurance from having Line 5 as a reliable, safe source of energy, solving gaming puzzles also has a positive impact.

 

“It’s time to get the final permit approved so that we can build the Tunnel— let’s get going.”

—Mike Moeller, director, Enbridge’s Great Lakes Region

Puzzles use both sides of the brain, and improve memory, cognitive function and problem-solving skills, according to multiple studies. Studies also show that people who participate in collaborative games, such as puzzles, indicate increased levels of happiness, and in some cases relaxation.

The Great Lakes Tunnel Project

“Building the Great Lakes Tunnel will be one of the last pieces of the puzzle to advancing the region’s energy future,” said Moeller.

“The Tunnel will reduce to zero the chance of a release into the waterways, continue to protect the environment and still provide the region with a safe, viable source of energy.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw how supply chain issues were created, affecting everything from getting groceries, to paper towels and cleaning solutions,” continued Moeller. “But during that same time, Line 5 kept energy flowing to Michigan and the greater region. Placing Line 5 in an approximate 21-foot diameter tunnel under the Straits, protects the precious waters of the Great Lakes, keeps energy flowing, and is a win for everyone.”

Enbridge, which will build and pay for the Great Lake’s Tunnel, has received two state permits. On the federal level, the energy company applied for a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in April 2020 and is still awaiting a final decision. Had the federal permit been issued timely, Enbridge points out the Tunnel could be nearly finished by now.

“It’s time to get the final permit approved so that we can build the Tunnel—let’s get going,” said Moeller.

Since 2002, January 29 annually marks National Puzzle Day.