Entergy Texas, in partnership with pipeline giant Kinder Morgan and Golden Pass LNG, has announced plans for the $1.7 billion, 216-mile Trident Intrastate Pipeline. The project will transport an additional 1.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas from the Permian Basin to the Port Arthur industrial corridor, addressing surging power and industrial demand in Southeast Texas.
Expected to begin operations in early 2027, the pipeline will support major industrial projects, fuel local power plants, and facilitate LNG exports. Entergy Texas, which serves 12 counties, estimates a 40% increase in energy demand by 2028, aligning with statewide projections of electricity consumption doubling over the next six years due to industrial expansion and data centers.
“By securing a reliable and sustainable fuel supply, we are building the foundation for a stronger energy future,” said Entergy Texas CEO Eliecer Viamontes.
The Trident Pipeline will connect to existing Permian Basin pipelines at a Houston-area hub before distributing gas throughout Southeast Texas and Port Arthur. It joins a wave of infrastructure projects increasing West Texas gas output, including the 580-mile Matterhorn Express pipeline, which began operations last year with a capacity of 2.5 billion cubic feet per day.
While the project supports industrial growth and power reliability, increased natural gas production and combustion contribute to carbon emissions. A 2024 study published in Nature highlighted methane leaks across gas infrastructure, adding to climate concerns.
Trident is designed for future expansion, with the potential to deliver up to 2.8 billion cubic feet of gas per day.