Other Jet Fuel Delivery Options

In 2001, VAFFC initiated an evaluation of alternate long-term jet fuel delivery system strategies to YVR, including upgrading or replacing the existing pipeline system. 

It is critical that the new system provide YVR with a safe and reliable jet fuel delivery system, access to a broad range of competitive offshore fuel supply sources, and the ability to meet YVR’s growing demand.

In all, 14 fuel delivery options were identified and assessed on the potential economic, environmental, social and regulatory impacts associated with their construction and operation. Based on this evaluation, the proposed project is the optimum one, as it best meets safety, environmental, technical and financial criteria, and offers long-term reliability of fuel supply to YVR. The preferred option also accommodates all vessel sizes due to the deep water at the terminal site, and good ground conditions for the pipeline.

Fuel Delivery Options Analysis

In 2011, VAFFC contracted Golder Associates and Ausenco-Sandwell, both well respected firms with marine and environmental engineering experience, to undertake an independent and transparent comparative analysis of four main potential jet fuel delivery options for YVR, including an upgrade of the existing pipeline.

The analysis was undertaken to address concerns raised by the City of Richmond and other stakeholders regarding the original analysis conducted by VAFFC.

The comparative analysis confirmed that the proposed project is the best option when environmental, socio-economic, First Nations, operations and economic factors are considered together.

The results of the analysis were released in December 2011.

Options Analysis Backgrounder

More information on the 14 options that were evaluated can be found in Section 2 of the Project Description Report.