Press Release: North Dakota Utility Firms Seek State Backing for Natural Gas Pipeline Projects
BISMARCK — Executives from WBI Energy and Intensity Infrastructure Partners presented their natural gas pipeline proposals to the North Dakota Industrial Commission on July 30, aiming for a significant financial guarantee of $500 million. This state-backed commitment, offering up to $50 million annually over ten years, seeks to facilitate the transportation of natural gas from the Bakken oil fields to central and eastern North Dakota, primarily catering to industrial needs.
Governor Kelly Armstrong expressed confidence in the necessity of such infrastructure, highlighting its potential to overcome flaring waste and meet growing gas demands. Both companies emphasize that while the state guarantee acts as a bridge for their projects, private market interest is anticipated to follow once the pipeline is constructed.
MDU’s extensive existing infrastructure positions it favorably, while Intensity, supported by major energy investors, stresses the need for the full guarantee to launch its ambitious project. Discussions around the potential use of eminent domain for construction have emerged, reflecting the complexities involved in securing land for such major developments. A funding decision is expected in August, marking a pivotal moment for North Dakota’s energy landscape.
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