Controversial Atlantic Coast Pipeline Project Moves Forward

This week Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas submitted permits to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to build a 550-mile natural gas pipeline across three mid-Atlantic states.

1 minute read

September 22, 2015, 10:00 AM PDT

By Pete Sullivan


Pipeline map

The controversial pipeline project would primarily deliver natural gas from West Virginia to rural eastern North Carolina, where access to natural gas is limited. The companies say the project will help lower energy costs, stimulate economic growth, and create jobs. Opponents—particularly in Virginia—say the project could impact water quality, disrupt forest habitat, and mar the Shenandoah Valley’s historic and picturesque landscape, which contributes to tourism, outdoor recreation, and related industries.

According to application materials, reduced energy costs would save consumers and businesses in Virginia and North Carolina $377 million annually, create more than 2,200 full-time, permanent jobs, and generate $25 million in annual local tax revenue. The project would cost $5 billion to construct, and initially carry 1.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day. The target completion date is late 2018. 

Friday, September 18, 2015 in WRAL

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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