Energy Transfer: Hurricane Harvey update

Published by Elizabeth Corner, Senior Editor
World Pipelines, Monday, 04 September 2017 14:15

Energy Transfer Partners announced on Friday that based on an initial assessment, it has determined that the overall impact to its operations in the Houston area and along the Gulf Coast from Hurricane Harvey has been minimal, and that all of its employees are safe and accounted for.

Energy Transfer has dedicated approximately 1000 employees to its emergency response team to manage the operational challenges presented by Hurricane Harvey. This dedicated team, many of whom are facing personal losses and hardships because of the hurricane, has gone beyond the call of duty to expertly manage Energy Transfer’s operations during this catastrophic event.

Below is an assessment of Energy Transfer’s current operations by operating segment:

Crude segment

Energy Transfer’s crude operations continue with minimal interruptions; however, takeaway capacity is constrained based on ship channel closure and refinery capabilities. The Nederland, Texas facility continues to leverage its storage capacity; however, deliveries are being managed to maximise the system. Bayou Bridge and Dakota Access pipelines are fully operational and delivering product. Energy Transfer’s terminal and trucking operations are coming back up to full operations as flood waters recede.

Natural gas/NGLs

Energy Transfer’s extensive natural gas pipeline system throughout Texas is operational and undamaged. Systems are now operating near full capacity with volumes returning out of the Eagle Ford Shale. Energy Transfer did experience some interruption in its natural gas liquids service earlier in the week due to limited takeaway capacity and constraints at Mont Belvieu.

Refined products

Energy Transfer’s Mont Belvieu, Texas facility is fully functional including its ability to export products; however, only two of the four fractionators are operating due to constrained takeaway capacity and the shut in of all ship and barge operations at this time. All other refined products marketing terminals in Texas and Louisiana are open with the exception of the Hebert Terminal; however, inventories are low. The Hebert Pump Station is expected to restart by Sunday, 3 September, 2017.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/04092017/energy-transfer-hurricane-harvey-update/