North Dakota approves Energy Transfer Partners’ $3.78bn oil pipeline

The North Dakota Public Service Commission (PSC) in the US has approved Energy Transfer Partners’ $3.78bn Dakota Access Pipeline that will connect the Bakken and Three Forks production areas in North Dakota to Patoka, Illinois.

The 1,154-mile, 30-inch diameter pipeline, which would be constructed and operated by Dakota Access, will carry crude oil across Mountrail, Williams, McKenzie, Dunn, Mercer, Morton and Emmons Counties in North Dakota.

The North Dakota portion of the pipeline is expected to involve nearly $1.41bn costs and comprises about 358 miles of crude oil pipeline that increases in diameter from 12 inches to 20, 24 and ultimately 30 inches.

PSC chairman Julie Fedorchak said: "This project received thorough review which was totally transparent.

"The permit today provides for a sound, safe project that will provide an efficient and environmentally sound way to transport Bakken crude oil for many decades."

The permit was given based on conditions that the pipeline’s design, construction as well as operation will be in accordance with the US Department of Transportation regulations.

The pipeline also needs to be bored at both locations where it crosses the Missouri River and also under the Little Missouri River, the Knife River, the Heart River, and both crossings of Cherry Creek to cut environmental impacts.

A supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system must be installed to monitor pressure and volumes in and out of the pipeline.

The measures also include installation of valves with remote actuators and emergency response equipment in Epping, Williston, Watford City, and Bismarck.

The pipeline will start at the Stanley Tank Terminal and will exit North Dakota southeast of Westfield.

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Image: Map showing the location of the North Dakota portion of the pipeline. Photo: courtesy of North Dakota Public Service Commission