Increased pipeline security could have long-term impacts

by The Associated Press

Increased security at refineries and along thousands of miles of pipelines following the Sept. 11 terrorists attacks is likely to have long-range impact on the nation’s energy systems, industry officials say. While there have been no specific terrorist threats against U.S. energy facilities, the attacks prompted energy companies across the country to scramble to increase protection.

The heightened security is likely to remain for some time and could, according to some industry officials, have permanent effects.

Already, some energy companies are urging lawmakers to limit the amount of information that should be provided the public on flow rates and locations of major oil or natural gas pipelines.

About 200,000 miles of pipelines carry oil and petroleum products across the country. An additional 180,000 miles of pipelines carry natural gas. While most of these lines are buried, pumping stations, terminals and other facilities could be vulnerable.

Pipeline companies are putting people into previously unmanned facilities, increasing security at terminals and key pumping stations, and adding to patrols along the pipes, according to industry officials.

“We’ve been at heightened security since the attacks,” said Jerry Halvorsen, president of the Interstate Natural Gas Association.