Energy Pipelines

Oil, gas, and petroleum products pipelines are essential to the nation in moving energy products long distances to critical markets. These pipelines crisscross the United States, moving nearly a quarter of the nation’s energy. Today’s energy demands have resulted in a resurgence of pipeline construction activity throughout the U.S.

Associated with these pipelines, above-ground facilities such as taps, valves, metering stations, or compressor stations may be involved. In the case of a natural gas storage field, there may be storage field pipelines and wells, and even subsurface storage.

Yet as vital as pipelines are to our economy, transforming a computer-aided design and drawing (CADD) to an operating line isn’t getting any easier. It is understandable that the location of pipelines and other facilities raises urgent questions for landowners, but today NIMBYs (Not In My Back Yard!) have been joined by NUMBYs (Not UNDER My Back Yard!). Both are now better organized and advised by attorneys and environmental consultants well schooled in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

In addition to the need to the increasing sensitivity of working with property owners and organized groups of varied interests, there are FERC requirements which require compliance. FERC must approve the location and construction of interstate pipelines, storage fields and all associated facilities.

When there is potential impact on aquifers, ground water, and storm water runoff, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may be required to become directly involved.

Cinnabar Service Company professionals know:

• How FERC and EPA procedures work;
• Requirements for public meetings and public information;
• What rights property owners have in the FERC process;
• What safety and environmental issues might be involved;
• NEPA, which requires all Federal agencies to make environmental consideration a necessary part of an agency's decision-making process;
• Local, county and state laws and zoning ordinances; and
• How to effectively negotiate with property owners.

Planning and lead-time considerations may make it important to begin negotiations for easements and purchase options prior to FERC filing. Cinnabar is prepared to handle FERC pipeline projects from issuance of the Notice of Intent (NOI) to restoration of the land after the trench is filled. Our negotiating agents have dealt successfully with land-owners for survey permission, acquisition of easements and fee title, loss of certain uses of land during and after construction, and damage to property. Cinnabar agents are also experienced in providing condemnation documentation and support when necessary.