key term - Permian Highway Pipeline

Definition

The Permian Highway Pipeline is a natural gas pipeline that transports gas from the Permian Basin in West Texas to the Gulf Coast region, specifically to markets in Central Texas and beyond. This pipeline enhances the energy infrastructure in Texas by enabling more efficient transportation of natural gas, thus supporting the state’s booming energy industry, particularly in oil and natural gas production.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Permian Highway Pipeline was completed and began operations in early 2021, with a capacity to transport up to 2.1 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day.
2. This pipeline provides a critical link between the prolific Permian Basin and key markets along the Gulf Coast, allowing producers to access larger markets and potentially higher prices for their natural gas.
3. The construction of the pipeline faced environmental and legal challenges, including opposition from landowners and environmental groups concerned about its impact on local ecosystems.
4. The pipeline is part of a broader trend of expanding midstream infrastructure in Texas, which has been necessary due to the rapid growth of oil and natural gas production in the region.
5. The successful operation of the Permian Highway Pipeline is expected to boost Texas's position as a leading energy producer in the United States, contributing to both state and national energy supply.

Review Questions

• How does the Permian Highway Pipeline impact the transportation of natural gas within Texas?
  • The Permian Highway Pipeline significantly enhances the transportation of natural gas by linking production areas in the Permian Basin directly to major markets along the Gulf Coast. By increasing the capacity for transporting gas, it allows producers to respond more effectively to market demands and access better pricing. This connection supports the overall efficiency of Texas's energy infrastructure and facilitates economic growth in the energy sector.
• Discuss some challenges faced during the construction of the Permian Highway Pipeline and their implications for future projects.
  • During its construction, the Permian Highway Pipeline encountered various challenges, including legal disputes with landowners and environmental concerns raised by activists. These challenges highlight the complexities involved in developing energy infrastructure in sensitive areas. The outcomes of these disputes may influence how future pipelines are planned, including increased emphasis on environmental assessments and community engagement to address concerns before construction begins.
• Evaluate the significance of the Permian Highway Pipeline in relation to Texas's overall energy strategy and market position.
  • The Permian Highway Pipeline plays a crucial role in reinforcing Texas's status as a leading player in the U.S. energy landscape. By facilitating more efficient transport of natural gas from one of the most productive regions in North America, it enables producers to capitalize on rising demand for natural gas. This not only strengthens Texas’s economy but also aligns with broader national goals for energy independence and sustainability, showcasing how infrastructure investments can drive market advantages while addressing critical energy needs.

Related terms

Permian Basin:

A large oil and natural gas-producing area located in West Texas and Southeastern New Mexico, known for its significant contributions to the energy industry.

Natural Gas: A fossil fuel consisting primarily of methane, which is used as a source of energy for heating, electricity generation, and as a fuel for vehicles.

Midstream Infrastructure: The sector of the energy industry that involves the transportation, storage, and processing of oil and gas products between production and end-users.