A midstream natural gas company has applied to increase the capacity of a natural gas liquids pipeline in McKenzie and Dunn Counties.
ONEOK has applied to build two pumping stations on its Bear Creek pipeline, to increase the capacity of the pipeline from 15,000 barrels to 80,000 barrels.
It runs from the Bear Creek gas processing plant to another pipeline.
The company had applied in January, but put the project on hold. Now it wants to go ahead with the project.
North Dakota Public Service Commissioner Julie Fedorchak calls it good news.
"This is obviously an effort to increase the capacity of this pipeline to support the increased production of natural gas, and the need to process that, and make use of it, versus flaring," Fedorchak said. "I think it's good news that the company came and said, 'Let's move forward."
Fedorchak said it suggests the company sees a good future in natural gas production.
The PSC issued a notice of opportunity for a hearing on ONEOK’s plans. Fedorchak said the company is planning to start construction by the end of February, and have it completed by the end of 2021.