March 2009 Vol. 236 No. 3

In The News

Pipeline Opportunities Conference 2009 Wraps Up

Everything from the latest technological advances to the most up-to-date information concerning the Alaskan natural gas pipeline project was on the agenda at the 5th Annual Pipeline Opportunities Conference March 11 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.

Panelists representing Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI) discussed ongoing new technologies designed to help natural gas and oil products pipeline operators. Along with a top member of Alaskan Gov. Sarah Palin’s pipeline team, Drue Pearce, director of the Office of Federal Coordinator, was on hand to provide the latest information on the huge natural gas pipeline project. Tony Palmer, vice president of TransCanada which is the license holder for the project, also provided an update as will Harold Heinze, chief executive of the Alaskan Natural Gas Development Authority, which will build the intrastate spur off the mainline.

Doug Foshee, President and CEO of El Paso Corp., gave the keynote address. Panelists representing several of North America’s largest operators provided details on new and ongoing pipeline projects. Scott Thetford of Pace and Ken Medlock of the Baker Institute for Public Policy discussed the growth and challenges of the North American and international natural gas markets. Panelists representing transporters also provided a unique perspective on the challenges of transporting massive equipment including pipe to construction sites.

The single-day conference was sponsored by Pipeline & Gas Journal, the world’s oldest and largest magazine covering the pipeline industry, and the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA). Panelists’ presentations are online at the Pipeline Opportunities website.