SpaceX plans 8-mile natural gas pipeline for Texas Starbase facility
(UI) - SpaceX is preparing to build an approximately 8-mile natural gas pipeline to supply its Starbase launch facility in South Texas, expanding the company's energy infrastructure as it ramps up production and launch operations for its Starship program.
According to regulatory filings, the proposed pipeline—known as Starpipe—would transport natural gas from a site near the Port of Brownsville to Starbase, where the fuel would be liquefied into methane for use by the company's next-generation launch vehicle. According to Oilprice.com, construction is expected to begin next month, with the pipeline targeted to enter service in January.
The project is part of SpaceX's broader effort to vertically integrate its fuel supply chain. In addition to the pipeline, the company is planning an on-site liquefaction facility and has reportedly been evaluating natural gas production opportunities in Texas to support future launch operations.
Starship consumes approximately 630,000 gallons of liquid methane per launch, and the Federal Aviation Administration has approved up to 25 launches annually from Starbase, Oilprice.com reported. The dedicated pipeline would reduce reliance on truck deliveries while supporting higher launch frequencies as SpaceX continues expanding its South Texas operations.
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