State greenlights key step for North Dakota natural gas pipeline

(UI) — The North Dakota Industrial Commission has moved to support construction of a new natural gas pipeline, directing the state Pipeline Authority on Aug. 21 to begin contract talks with WBI Energy Transmission to purchase transport capacity. Officials described the step as a key financial commitment needed to advance the project.

“Today marks a pivotal milestone in the state’s effort to build much-needed natural gas pipeline infrastructure,” the Commission said in a joint statement. “This project will move abundant natural gas to end users across the state and support the longevity of oil production in North Dakota, which will benefit our economy for generations to come.”

Pipeline Authority Executive Director Justin Kringstad said the project is aimed at securing long-term growth. “This project is about positioning North Dakota for the future. As natural gas production grows, we need reliable, scalable infrastructure that expands takeaway capacity and connects our resources to new market opportunities,” Kringstad said.

Under state law, the Industrial Commission, acting through the Pipeline Authority, can purchase pipeline capacity rights to facilitate production, transportation, and delivery of energy-related commodities. Senate Bill 2014, passed by the 69th Legislative Assembly, expanded that authority by appropriating up to $100 million per biennium for such purchases.

The Industrial Commission is made up of Gov. Kelly Armstrong, Attorney General Drew Wrigley, and Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring.

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