Construction begins on Bakken gas pipeline project

North Dakota, July 22 - Nefetgaz.RU. Construction began this week on the North Bakken Expansion project in the United States, which the CEO of MDU Resources Group said will help producers reduce flaring in the region.

The natural gas pipeline expansion will have capacity to transport 250 MMcf/d of gas from the Bakken Formation.
WBI Energy, a subsidiary of MDU Resources Group, received a notice to proceed on July 8 from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, allowing construction to commence, according to a release from MDU Resources on July 19.

David Goodin, CEO of MDU Resources, said:

• WBI Energy transports more than 50% of the natural gas produced from the Bakken
• This project will bring WBI’s total pipeline system capacity to more than 2.4 billion cubic feet per day while reducing gas flaring in the region by allowing producers to move more gas to market

The North Bakken Expansion project includes construction of approximately 63 miles of 24-inch gas pipeline and 30 miles of 12-inch gas pipeline, as well as a new compressor station and additional associated infrastructure.
It is estimated to cost $260 million and, during peak construction, is expected to employ up to 450 people.

D.Goodin added in his statement:

• Producers have reinforced their need for this additional capacity by committing to long-term transportation contracts with WBI
• We appreciate the support from state and federal officials who helped elevate the significance of this project for both its environmental and economic benefits

WBI Energy expects to have the pipeline in service by the end of the year.