MOVING crude by rail is an option but not likely one that would be easily accepted, says the man who wants to build a refinery.
“If B.C. remains set against a pipeline the oil will come to the refinery by rail. CN and the oil companies are keen on this. A great deal of crude in North America is being moved by rail now. The costs are not that different in this case and no permits are required,” said David Black last week.
It would take 12 trains a day of 120 cars each (six loaded and six empty) to replace a pipeline.
“Rail tankering is, however, not as safe and it is more disruptive. Small towns along the route with level crossings would rue having 12 more trains running through every day,” said Black.