Spectra proposes expansion of New England pipeline systems
Published by Rosalie Starling,
Editor - Hydrocarbon Engineering
World Pipelines,
Spectra Energy and Spectra Energy Partners have announced plans to expand the company’s Algonquin Gas Transmission and Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline systems. The so-called ‘Atlantic Bridge project’ will connect abundant North American natural gas supplies with markets in the New England states and Maritime provinces. Efforts are currently underway by the six New England states to bring additional natural gas into the region.
Open season
Algonquin and Maritimes & Northeast recently executed an agreement with Unitil Corporation to participate as an anchor shipper in the project. Unitil is a natural gas distribution company that serves parts of Massachusetts and New Hampshire, and is the largest distributor in Maine. Spectra Energy’s announcement coincides with the beginning of an open season to invite other customers to join the Atlantic Bridge project for additional natural gas service by 2017. The project has a target in-service date of November 2017 and has the flexibility to consider further commitments for 2018 depending on shipper requests. The present open season closes on 31st March 2014.
Pipeline expansion with minimal disruption
“Spectra Energy’s pipeline systems are strategically positioned to answer New England’s need for additional domestic, clean-burning natural gas,” said Bill Yardley, President of US Transmission and Storage at Spectra Energy. “We are able to expand our existing facilities, mostly within their current footprint, and be operational by 2017. The additional supply will keep prices lower overall, while also dampening future gas and electricity price volatility, generating savings for homeowners, manufacturers and businesses.”
A majority of the Atlantic Bridge project’s construction is expected to occur within existing rights of way and at company-owned facilities, thereby having a minimal effect on landowners, communities and the environment. The expansion will increase pipeline capacity by 100 000 to in excess of 600 000 dth/d of natural gas, depending upon additional market commitments across the region.
Adapted from press release by Rosalie Starling
Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/06022014/spectra_energy_proposes_expansion_of_new_england_pipeline_systems_69/
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