DeLa Express moves forward with 690-mile Permian-to-Louisiana pipeline
By Mary Holcomb, Digital Editor
(UI) — DeLa Express has taken a significant step in advancing its 690-mile natural gas pipeline project from the Delaware Basin in Texas to Lake Charles, Louisiana. The company requested pre-filing status on April 2, and FERC approved their request for pre-filing on April 15.
Following this milestone, DeLa Express submitted preliminary drafts of Resource Report 1 and a Summary of Alternatives on May 15. These documents outline detailed project plans and potential alternatives.
RELATED: DeLa Express seeks FERC approval for Permian-to-Louisiana gas pipeline project
The project includes a 42-inch diameter mainline pipeline, five lateral pipelines, eight compressor stations, and multiple meter stations. It aims to provide approximately 2 billion cubic feet per day of new natural gas transportation capacity.
The primary goal of the FERC pre-filing review process is to engage regulatory agencies, affected landowners, and stakeholders to address potential environmental concerns early in the project's development.
In June, FERC staff reviewed the preliminary drafts and provided feedback, highlighting areas needing further information. DeLa Express promptly responded to these comments, showing their commitment to advancing the project and addressing regulatory concerns.
Environmental and cultural resource surveys began last month, with 45% of environmental surveys and 7% of cultural resource surveys completed along the accessible route. An introductory letter was sent to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s office of National Marine Fisheries Service on July 11. Additionally, DeLa Express participated in bi-weekly calls with FERC staff in late June and early July.
A reroute to avoid Big Thicket National Park has brought the project into the Texas coastal zone, necessitating a Coastal Management Program Consistency Statement. DeLa Express has obtained survey permissions for 36% of the proposed right-of-way and continues to update information via title searches and tax records.
As DeLa Express navigates the regulatory landscape, this filing underscores its dedication to meeting FERC requirements and advancing the project while adhering to environmental and cultural considerations.
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