Pacific Connector pipeline construction to begin in 2015

Construction on the proposed US$ 1.7 billion Pacific Connector gas pipeline (PCGP) will begin in 2015 in Klamath County, Oregon if all goes according to plan, with delivery of natural gas to Jordon Cove in Coos Bay scheduled for 2017.

According to Michael Hinrich, Director of Public affairs for Jordan Cove, "The project is expected to have a final environmental impact statement in the third quarter of 2014, which would allow construction to begin in early 2015." "This will be the largest single private investment project in Oregon's history," he added.

The project is to be completed in two years. The first work season will be to clear rights-of-way. The trench and the pipeline will be constructed during the second work season.

PCGP

The PCGP will provide a link with existing pipeline systems that converge at Mailan, Oregon, and the west coast of Coos Bay, Oregon. The pipeline will deliver approximately 1 billion m³/day of natural gas to the Jordan Cove Energy Project in Coos Bay, in addition to serving other potential markets along the proposed pipeline route.

The proposed route spans 232 miles across Klamath, Jackson, Douglas and Coos counties connecting at the North Spit of the International Port of Coos Bay. Pacific Connector consists of a 36 in. dia. steel pipeline buried at a minimum depth compressor station and several receipt and delivery meter stations.

Direct economic benefits

The Pacific Connector will provide direct economic benefits through Southern Oregon. More than 1000 construction jobs will be created for up to two years to build the pipeline, with a peak construction workforce of approximately 1400, many of which will be hired locally.

Representative Bruce Hanna of the Oregon State Legislature said, "Pacific Connector will bring much-needed economic growth to Southern Oregon...Southern Oregon will benefit from an increased availability of natural gas – with no cost to ratepayers. This is a win for gas consumers and Southern Oregon's economy while generating long-term tax revenue."

Foreign exports

According to Hinrich, the energy project is the first West Coast operation to be considered for exporting to countries not participating in the Free Trade Agreement. Countries that may receive the gas include Japan, China and several smaller ones in the Far East. Hawaii may also benefit from buying the gas. Permission must be granted by the Department of Energy before exports can be sent to these counties and the department is currently reviewing the application.

Edited from various sources by Hannah Priestley-Eaton

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/12122013/pacific_connector_pipeline_construction_to_begin_in_2015/