API President and CEO Jack Gerard applauded the 20 November action by the Nebraska Public Service Commission to approve the permit allowing for construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, and thanked the commission for its thoughtful and comprehensive process to evaluate the project.
“The Nebraska Public Service Commission sets an example for how to carefully evaluate critical energy infrastructure projects, even in the face of strongly held views and opinions,” said Gerard. “It’s been a long path to today’s approval and the commission should be commended. Their action allows the Keystone XL pipeline to be built by highly trained, skilled tradesmen using state-of-the-art technologies aimed at protecting the environment and promoting the safety of our communities. Pipelines such as this enhance our ability to safely deliver North American energy to our world class refineries, which in turn provide the fuels and products we all rely on every day.”
Among the many benefits that will come from this project like increased energy security for our nation, the Keystone XL pipeline is estimated to support 42 000 jobs during its construction and generate US$55 million in property tax revenue in its first year of operation.