BISMARCK, ND - The North Dakota Industrial Commission acted today to support the construction of a natural gas pipeline, directing the North Dakota Pipeline Authority executive director to begin contract discussions with WBI Energy Transmission for the purpose of purchasing transport capacity, a critical financial commitment necessary to move a pipeline construction project forward.
“Today marks a pivotal milestone in the state’s effort to build much-needed natural gas pipeline infrastructure,” the Commission said in a joint statement. “This project will move abundant natural gas to end users across the state and support the longevity of oil production in North Dakota, which will benefit our economy for generations to come.”
Pipeline Authority Executive Director Justin Kringstad highlighted the project’s importance for both immediate and long-term state priorities. “This project is about positioning North Dakota for the future. As natural gas production grows, we need reliable, scalable infrastructure that expands takeaway capacity and connects our resources to new market opportunities,” said Kringstad. “It reflects the collaborative spirit of industry and policymakers working together to responsibly advance our state’s energy future.”
The Industrial Commission, acting as the North Dakota Pipeline Authority, can purchase the right to capacity in a pipeline system to facilitate the production, transportation, distribution or delivery of energy-related commodities produced in North Dakota. Senate Bill 2014 of the 69th Legislative Assembly expanded the funding mechanism for purchasing pipeline capacity and appropriated up to $100 million per biennium for this purpose.
The Industrial Commission is comprised of Gov. Kelly Armstrong as Chairman, Attorney General Drew Wrigley and Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring.
For more information, please contact Kringstad at jjkringstad@ndpipelines.com.
Additional information at the following link:
Industrial Commission Supports Construction of a Natural Gas Pipeline with WBI Energy Transmission