Alaska LNG pipeline could require 7,000 workers at peak construction, developers say
(UI) - Developers of the proposed Alaska LNG Project say construction of an 800-mile natural gas pipeline could require as many as 7,000 workers at peak activity, underscoring the scale of the long-planned infrastructure effort.
According to KDLL News, the estimate was presented this month to the Alaska Workforce Investment Board by 8 Star Alaska LLC, the entity managing the project under majority owner Glenfarne Group and the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation. Glenfarne has not yet committed to building the pipeline and plans to make a final investment decision by January 1.
The project would transport treated North Slope natural gas through a roughly 800-mile pipeline to Southcentral Alaska, supporting both in-state use and potential LNG exports. Glenfarne is currently prioritizing the pipeline segment intended for in-state gas delivery, KDLL reported.
Project officials said construction would be divided into four major spreads, each with its own equipment fleet and workforce to accelerate the schedule. Multiple work camps are under consideration along the route.
The anticipated labor demand includes 1,900 engineers, 1,600 pipefitters and welders, 450 ironworkers, 400 electricians, and 3,500 logistics workers. Developers also expect a project labor agreement covering pipefitters, welders, laborers, equipment operators and Teamsters.
While board members acknowledged the economic potential of the effort, several noted that Alaska is already experiencing worker shortages, with a shrinking working-age population and increasing strain on skilled trades.
Glenfarne says it is prioritizing Alaska hires and has identified more than 200 in-state businesses that could support the project. The company has also secured several non-binding gas purchase commitments and recently announced a strategic alliance with Baker Hughes to supply compressors and power equipment for North Slope facilities.
A final decision on whether to advance to construction is expected at the start of the new year.
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