Technology & Innovation

TransCanada owns and operates pipelines, gas storage facilities and power plants considered among the most technologically-advanced in the industry.

We are proud of our record in implementing innovative and cost effective technologies and solutions that meet customer needs and our responsibility to the environment.

Innovative Technologies

For example, we're leaders in pioneering the use of high strength steel for pipelines, such as the X-100 grade, large diameter steel pipe. The 'thinner walled' high strength steel transports greater volumes of natural gas at increased pressures, while reducing transportation costs for shippers and cutting GHG emissions. We're also the only company in North America to install and gain operating experience from using the technology.

Research and Development

These innovations are the results of a focused and active technology program, which encourages employees to submit their ideas for research and development in areas such as:

Advanced pipeline materials;
Pipeline, plant and measurement;
Gas quality and flow efficiency;
Environment and employee health and safety;
Power generation;
Gas storage and liquefied natural gas.

Innovative Thinking

We are just as proud of our ability to be pioneers in strategic solutions for meeting North American energy requirements. For example, TransCanada's Keystone Pipeline, now under construction, will transport a reliable and stable supply of crude oil from Hardisty, Alberta to U.S. Midwest markets, meeting rising demand for energy in North America. The 2,148-mile (3,456-kilometre) pipeline includes the conversion of about 537 miles (864 kilometres) of TransCanada's smallest natural gas pipeline to crude oil transmission, reducing overall costs and environmental impacts.