Domestic oil and gas companies like Triple Diamond Energy Corp. are well aware of the need to become less dependent on foreign oil.  Exciting proposed developments in the Pacific Northwest offer a solution deliver domestically produced natural gas to the growing population in this region.

With more people in the United States moving to the Pacific Northwest in order to enjoy the temperate climate and pleasant way of life, the demand for fuel is beginning to grow.  The fuel needed to heat homes, prepare meals, and power vehicles is rising along with the population.  The majority of the natural gas needed in the Pacific Northwest is currently pumped south from the large fields of Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. 

Until recently, the gas acquired from the north was sufficient to meet the needs of the area.  Now, with the rising population and fuel consumption, this one source of gas is not enough. In order to supply additional gasoline in the Pacific Northwest, the Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline has been proposed.

The Pacific Northwest Pipeline

Two large gas outfitters located in the United States have proposed the Pacific Northwest Pipeline.  The two outfitters have suggested joining together in order to construct a large pipe that would extend from the current Pacific Northwest Pipeline throughout the state of Oregon. 

The local natural gas distributors of the regions most affected by the growing fuel shortages have agreed to purchase 1.49 billion cubic feet of natural gas each day in order to meet their needs.  Those involved in the construction are hurrying to file the necessary paperwork in order to begin construction.  This rush is greatly influenced by the obvious need in the Pacific Northwest and the knowledge that such a major undertaking will take time. 

Environmental Considerations of the Pipeline

In addition to filling out paperwork, the outfitters are beginning to hire experts that will gather data and issue a statement about the impact the construction will have on the environment in the area. When the statement is completed it will be released to the public so that the community will have time react and voice their opinion.  The public will have the opportunity to decide whether the new pipelines benefits will be worth the environmental effects. 

Proposed Construction of the Pacific Northwest Pipeline

The proposed pipeline will be 36-inches in diameter and 230 miles in length.  Along with the pipe itself, a new import terminal will be needed for the liquefied natural gas and this terminal will need to be constructed in Jordan Cove, Oregon.  Both projects will provide nearly 3,000 jobs in the regions, causing large amounts of money to be invested into local areas.  This financial increase will lead to economic growth and development that will last long after the pipe’s construction is complete.  Additionally, the regions housing the pipeline will be receiving $14 million each year for county property taxes.

If everything is approved and goes as planned, the pipeline will should be ready for use in 2011. Like consumers in the Northwest, Triple Diamond Energy Corp. is excited about the development of the Pacific Northwest Pipeline.  Domestic oil and gas companies are always searching for new ways to help America become less dependent on foreign oil and ways to reduce the costs of petroleum based products.