DeLa Express has achieved a key milestone in its 690-mile natural gas pipeline project from the Delaware Basin in Texas to Lake Charles, Louisiana. After requesting pre-filing status on April 2, FERC granted approval on April 15.
Following this, DeLa Express submitted preliminary drafts of Resource Report 1 and a Summary of Alternatives on May 15, outlining detailed project plans and alternative considerations. The pipeline aims to transport natural gas from the Delaware Basin to markets around Lake Charles, involving the construction of a 690-mile, 42-inch diameter mainline, five lateral pipelines, eight compressor stations, and multiple meter stations, adding 2 billion cubic feet per day of new gas transportation capacity.
The primary goal of seeking FERC’s Pre-Filing Review Process is to engage regulatory agencies, landowners, and stakeholders early, addressing potential environmental concerns. In June, FERC Staff reviewed the preliminary drafts and provided comments, which DeLa Express promptly addressed, showing their commitment to regulatory compliance.
The company has also started environmental and cultural resource surveys, completing 45% of environmental and 7% of cultural surveys along the accessible route. They have engaged with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service and participated in pre-filing bi-weekly calls with FERC staff.
A reroute to avoid Big Thicket National Park has led the project into the Texas coastal zone, requiring a Coastal Management Program Consistency Statement. DeLa Express has secured survey permissions for 36% of the proposed route and continues to verify and update information through title searches and tax records, contacting landowners for necessary permissions.
This progress underscores DeLa Express’s dedication to fulfilling FERC requirements and advancing the project while adhering to environmental and cultural considerations.