Manchin-Backed Gas Pipeline Seeks US Approval to Start Up

Manchin-Backed Gas Pipeline Seeks US Approval to Start Up

A natural gas pipeline project in West Virginia, backed by Senator Joe Manchin, is seeking approval from the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to begin operation. The Mountain Valley Pipeline, a 304-mile project, has faced years of delays and legal challenges from environmental groups. The pipeline is designed to transport natural gas from the Marcellus and Utica Shale formations to markets in the Southeast United States. Manchin, a Democrat from West Virginia, is a strong supporter of the pipeline, arguing that it would create jobs and boost the state’s economy. However, opponents say the project would harm sensitive ecosystems, contribute to climate change, and violate the rights of landowners. The FERC is currently reviewing a revised environmental assessment of the project. The agency issued a conditional certificate for the pipeline in 2017, but that approval was overturned by a federal appeals court in 2020. The pipeline’s developers, Mountain Valley Pipeline LLC, have agreed to a number of conditions to mitigate the project’s environmental impacts, including reducing the size of the pipeline and routing it away from certain sensitive areas. Environmental advocates are urging FERC to reject the pipeline, arguing that the project is unnecessary and would harm important habitats. The Sierra Club, one of the groups opposing the pipeline, called it a “reckless and irresponsible project” that would contribute to climate change. The Manchin-backed gas pipeline project is a controversial issue that has divided opinion in West Virginia and beyond. The FERC’s decision on whether to approve the pipeline is expected to have a significant impact on the state’s economy and environment.The Mountain Valley Pipeline, a controversial natural gas pipeline, is seeking approval from regulators to begin operations upon completion.The Mountain Valley Pipeline, a controversial natural gas pipeline, is seeking approval from regulators to begin operations upon completion. Owned by Equitrans Midstream Corp., the 300-mile pipeline stretches from West Virginia to southern Virginia. Facing legal battles and environmental opposition, the project encountered significant delays from its original schedule. Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia, now an independent, has consistently advocated for the pipeline, arguing its necessity for increasing domestic energy production and reducing costs. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has been requested to grant approval for the pipeline’s operation by June 11, according to a recent filing. This filing comes as Equitrans Midstream Corp. is being acquired by American natural gas producer EQT Corp.A natural gas pipeline project backed by West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin is seeking approval from federal regulators to begin operating, a move that could boost domestic energy production but also raise environmental concerns. The Mountain Valley Pipeline, which would transport gas from West Virginia to Virginia, has been under construction since 2018 but has faced numerous delays due to legal challenges and environmental concerns. The pipeline’s developers, which include Equitrans Midstream and NextEra Energy, are now seeking approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to begin operating the project. Supporters of the pipeline argue that it would create jobs, boost the economy, and reduce reliance on foreign energy sources. They also contend that the pipeline would meet all environmental standards and has been designed to minimize its impact on the environment. Opponents of the pipeline, however, argue that it would damage sensitive ecosystems, contribute to climate change, and harm communities along its route. They also question the economic benefits of the project, arguing that it would primarily benefit large energy companies. FERC is expected to make a decision on the pipeline’s application in the coming months. The agency will consider a range of factors, including the environmental impact of the project, its economic benefits, and the need for additional natural gas infrastructure.