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Latecomers submit Pikka Pipeline comments
Kay Cashman Petroleum News
The State Pipeline Coordinator’s Section, or SPCS, received two late comments on the proposed decision to offer the Pikka Sales Oil Pipeline right-of-way lease under ADL 421843. One was from ConocoPhillips Alaska Pipelines and the other from the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. Two other comments were received in a timely manner - one from AIDEA’s Mustang Holding and the other from Oil Search (USA).
Among other things, ConocoPhillips says: “The proposed decision states OSA is using vertical loops in lieu of valving and that it is allowable however, vertical loops require approval by PHMSA.”
DEC noted: The proposed decision states OSA is using vertical loops in lieu of valving and that it is allowable, however, vertical loops require approval by PHMSA.
Both sets of comments are technical and short - less than two pages from ConocoPhillips and a single page from DEC.
Next steps The next steps for the Alaska Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Oil and Gas’ SPCS are a final decision by the DNR commissioner and a notice to proceed (construction approvals).
In its final decision DNR will explain its decision and respond directly to the public comments made in the current process period, which stemmed from SPCS’s Oct. 7 public hearing on the proposed decision.
Rather than report on the latest set of comments that contain no explanation from DNR or applicant Oil Search (USA), Petroleum News will report on the upcoming final decision, in which comments will be addressed.
- KAY CASHMAN
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